A recent Spanish study highlights a significant benefit of extra virgin olive oil beyond heart health: it may protect brain function during aging. Researchers found that individuals consuming virgin olive oil, as opposed to refined versions, demonstrated improved cognitive abilities and a healthier gut microbiome.
The study, involving over 600 participants aged 55-75 with increased risk factors for heart disease, tracked their olive oil consumption and gut bacteria diversity. The findings suggest virgin olive oil promotes beneficial bacteria, acting as a protective shield for cognitive health. Refined olive oil, which undergoes industrial processing that strips away natural antioxidants and vitamins, did not yield the same cognitive improvements.
Specifically, researchers identified increased levels of the bacterium Adlercreutzia in individuals consuming virgin olive oil, potentially indicating preserved brain function. The study underscores the importance of fat quality, suggesting extra virgin olive oil not only supports cardiovascular health but also aids in preserving cognitive function as people age.
While the study focused on older adults with specific health risks and relied on self-reported data, it provides compelling evidence for the brain-boosting potential of high-quality olive oil.