The Growing Trend Of Drinking EVOO Daily

In recent years, a new health trend has been gaining momentum worldwide: drinking extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) every day. While olive oil has long been a core ingredient in Mediterranean diets and culinary traditions, consuming it straight by the spoonful or from a glass, is becoming increasingly popular. But why are people adopting this habit? What are the actual benefits, and what does science say about it? Most importantly, why does the quality of the olive oil matter?

Why Are People Drinking Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

The shift towards drinking EVOO daily comes from a growing awareness of its health benefits. People are looking for natural, simple ways to boost their wellness, and EVOO offers a convenient source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. Many health enthusiasts claim that starting the day with a spoon of high-quality olive oil promotes better digestion, improved heart health, and enhanced skin condition.

The Benefits of Drinking Extra Virgin Olive Oil Every Day

1. Heart Health: EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which can help lower bad LDL cholesterol and increase good HDL cholesterol. Regular consumption is linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Extra virgin olive oil contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation at the cellular level. This may lower the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and certain cancers.
3. Digestive Health: Consuming EVOO can stimulate bile production and promote smoother digestion, potentially easing symptoms like constipation.
4. Skin and Hair Benefits: The antioxidants and vitamin E in olive oil help protect skin cells from oxidative damage, promoting healthier skin and hair.
5. Brain Health: Some studies suggest that the polyphenols and healthy fats in EVOO may support cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

What Does the Science Say?

Scientific research supports many of the claimed benefits of EVOO, especially when it is part of a balanced diet like the Mediterranean diet. Studies have consistently shown that diets rich in extra virgin olive oil are associated with lower rates of heart disease, improved metabolic profiles, and reduced inflammation. However, most studies focus on EVOO as part of overall dietary patterns, rather than isolated consumption by spoonfuls.

Emerging research, such as the 2022 study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry and the 2023 clinical trial reported in Nutrients, is exploring the direct effects of consuming EVOO daily in measured amounts. Early findings from these studies suggest benefits for lipid profiles and antioxidant capacity, but more clinical trials are needed to establish definitive guidelines on dosage and long-term effects.

The Importance of Olive Oil Quality

Not all olive oils are created equal. The benefits of drinking EVOO daily hinge on using high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Here’s why quality matters:

• Nutrient Content: High-quality EVOO retains more polyphenols, antioxidants, and vitamins compared to lower-grade oils or refined olive oils.
• Purity: Some (too many) commercial olive oils are adulterated or mixed with cheaper oils, reducing their health benefits.
• Taste and Freshness: Fresh EVOO has a distinct, robust flavor and aroma, factors that indicate the presence of beneficial compounds and proper processing.
• Processing Methods: Cold-pressed, minimally processed EVOO preserves the integrity of its bioactive compounds.

When choosing EVOO to drink daily, look for oils like Elixir Vitae’s Tuscan Premium, with information on source, process, authenticity, harvest date and chemical profile, from regions known for quality olive oil. Opt for small batch artisanal versus larges scale industrial production.

Conclusion

Drinking extra virgin olive oil daily is becoming an increasingly popular trend for those seeking natural health benefits. While it is still unclear whether drinking olive oil directly provides greater advantages than using it in cooking, and more research is needed, the key is to consistently include olive oil in your daily diet to reap its health benefits. After all, depending on your eating habits, taking one or two spoons a day can be an easier and effective way to ensure you are regularly incorporating a good amount of extra virgin olive oil into your diet.

As science shows, EVOO offers a wealth of health benefits, however, to truly reap these benefits, the quality of the olive oil is paramount. Opting for fresh, authentic, high-quality extra virgin olive oil ensures you get the most out of this golden elixir.