Olive leaf extract improves insulin sensitivity in overweight middle aged males; a randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled, crossover trial

Method We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled, crossover trial on an overweight middle aged male population at risk of developing the metabolic syndrome comparing olive leaf extract containing 51 mg oleuropein and 9.7 mg hydroxytyrosol to placebo. We measured insulin sensitivity (Matsuda method), pancreatic b-cell responsiveness (oral disposition index), lipid profile, ambulatory blood pressure, carotid intimal media thickness, body composition (DEXA) basal metabolic rate, hand-grip strength, wellness questionnaire, inflammatory cytokines, antioxidant potential all measured at baseline and end of both interventions.