Is drinking olive oil good for you?

As the popularity of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) continues to soar, some people have been curious about taking it to the next level by drinking olive oil. First, we love doing olive oil shots! We even have a social media post about it. But the question remains: is drinking olive oil good for you? Or is drinking it any better than drizzling it over a bowl of salad? Let’s dive in and explore the science behind olive oil consumption and its impact on your health.

Although there is no scientific evidence supporting the claim that drinking olive oil is better than using it in a meal, numerous studies have confirmed the overall health benefits of olive oil consumption. For example, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 studies found that olive oil consumption was associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

Furthermore, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that olive oil is a rich source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which are especially beneficial for heart health. In a 5-year study (the PREDIMED trial) conducted on 7,447 people, researchers found that people who consumed at least 4 tablespoons (approximately 60 ml) of olive oil every day were 30% less likely to develop heart disease compared to others following a low-fat diet.

However, there is no scientific evidence indicating that the method of olive oil consumption, whether drinking or drizzling, has any impact on the health benefits you will receive. So, drinking olive oil is not superior to drizzling it over your food or cooking with it.

If you enjoy the taste of olive oil, like we do, you can certainly drink it. We like to do olive oil shots, especially in the mornings, because we appreciate the burning sensation from our Early Harvest's fruity and pungent aroma. If you prefer a milder experience, our Mature Harvest will do the trick. Both of these products are made from PDO-certified organic olives grown on our family-owned groves, making them among the healthiest olive oils for daily consumption.

If you decide to drink olive oil on a daily basis, we recommend staying within the daily recommended amount. As a general rule, the recommended amount is one to two tablespoons a day.

In conclusion, while drinking olive oil may not offer additional health benefits compared to other methods of consumption, incorporating EVOO into your daily diet can contribute to better heart health and reduced risk of certain chronic diseases. Enjoy it in the way that suits your taste and lifestyle best!