The Benefits of Drinking Olive Oil: A Comprehensive Guide

With the growing popularity of health-conscious diets, olive oil has emerged as a staple ingredient in many households. While it is widely known for its use in cooking and salad dressings, many are now questioning whether drinking olive oil daily can offer additional health benefits.

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which promotes heart health. Moreover, it contains a wealth of antioxidants, vitamins E and K, and beneficial compounds like polyphenols. These nutrients work synergistically to help reduce inflammation, improve cholesterol levels, and provide protection against various diseases. When consumed in adequate amounts, olive oil can be a powerful ally in maintaining overall health.

Why are people choosing to drink olive oil?

Drinking olive oil has been associated with numerous health benefits. Studies suggest it may assist in weight management by promoting a sense of satiety and reducing cravings. The healthy fats in olive oil help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a suitable option for those managing diabetes. Additionally, the high antioxidant content has been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.

Furthermore, the polyphenols present in olive oil can improve digestion and support gut health. They work as prebiotics, which nourish beneficial gut bacteria. This can lead to a reduction in gastrointestinal discomfort, enhancing your overall well-being. Although further studies are required to quantify these effects, the preliminary results are promising.

The reason people are choosing to drink olive oil vs just add it to their food is to be able to clearly measure the amount they are consuming to make sure they get the max health benefits and also due to the fact that polyphenols degrade with heat - cooking with it or adding it to a hot coffee destroys the nutrients that are the most beneficial.

How best to Incorporate Olive Oil into Your Diet

There are numerous ways to consume olive oil to gain the max health benefits, however its important to chose a high polyphenol olive oil and not a supermarket brand to gain the health benefits found in clinical research. We recommend an early harvest extra virgin olive oil with a polyphenol count of 600mg/kg or higher.

Here are our 3 top ways to add extra virgin olive oil to your diet:

1) Drinking it

We recommend taking one tablespoon 3 times a day with each of your main meals. However you could also take it as a 45ml shot one in the morning or before bed. Some people like to add a dash of lemon to their shots for the taste and additional cleansing benefits.

2) Adding it to your smoothies and protein shakes

If you are a regular smoothie or protein shake consumer why not try adding some olive oil into the mix

3) Using it as a dressing on cold foods.

Why not drizzle it over salads, yogurts, or even add it to your sandwiches (vs butter)