### The Myth of Magical Benefits: Olive Oil on an Empty Stomach
Forthousands of years, olives and olive oil have been associated with health and
well-being. Mediterranean cultures, in particular, have made it a cornerstone
of their daily diet. Numerous studies highlight the Mediterranean diet, rich in
olive oil, as one of the most beneficial for human health. However, in recent
years, a belief has spread that consuming olives or olive oil on an empty
stomach in the morning amplifies these benefits, granting the body what some
describe as "magical immunity." But does this claim have any
scientific basis?
 |
| ### The Myth of Magical Benefits: Olive Oil on an Empty Stomach |
### The Myth of Magical Benefits: Olive Oil on an Empty Stomach
#### The Nutritional Composition of Olives
Manypeople may not realize that olives, both as fruit and oil, contain valuable
nutrients. They are rich in monounsaturated fats, predominantly oleic acid, which
many studies indicate plays a role in lowering "bad" cholesterol (LDL)
and increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL), thereby reducing the risk of
heart and artery diseases, according to a 2023 study published in Healthline.
- Olives also contain powerful antioxidants, most notably Vitamin E, and
- polyphenol compounds such as hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein. A 2020
- review in Medical News Today explained that these substances reduce
- inflammation in the body, contributing to the protection of cells and tissues
- from damage. Additionally, olives provide dietary fiber, which improves gut
- health, along with important minerals like iron and copper, essential for blood
- and nervous system health.
#### Claims About Consuming it on an Empty Stomach
Somepopular beliefs suggest that drinking olive oil in the morning stimulates the intestines and acts as a natural laxative, even aiding in "cleansing the stomach." Beloleum, a website specializing in olive oil, indicates that oils do indeed stimulate bile secretion and increase bowel movement, which facilitates digestion.
- However, scientifically, there are no extensive clinical studies proving that
- consuming it on an empty stomach is superior to consuming it throughout the
- day.
Similarly,
the antioxidants in olives, such as hydroxytyrosol, have shown anti-inflammatory
properties in published research, confirming their role in reducing certain
inflammatory markers in the body. Yet, these results are based on general
consumption and have no specific relation to the timing of oil intake or
whether it's on an empty stomach.
#### Where Does the Exaggeration Lie?
Many online articles attribute a "magical" aura to drinking olive oil in the morning. However, the reality is that science has not proven any miraculous effect that distinguishes this timing.
- There are no extensive clinical studies comparing individuals who consume
- olive oil in the morning versus those who consume it as part of their meals to
- identify a clear difference. Moreover, drinking a large amount of oil on an
empty stomach may cause digestive upset or reflux
in some individuals. Excessive consumption of olives preserved in brine can
also lead to high blood pressure or kidney problems due due to their high
sodium content.
#### How to Benefit from Olives and Olive Oil
If
you wish to incorporate this habit, food specialists offer simple guidelines. Firstly,
choose the right type: Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is the richest in natural
antibiotics and polyphenol compounds, making it more beneficial than processed
oils.
- Secondly, moderate quantity: Starting with a teaspoon in the morning is
- sufficient; there's no need to overdo it, as excessive intake can cause
- heartburn or diarrhea.
Thirdly, avoid excessively salty olives, as excessive sodium increases the risk of high blood pressure.
Fourthly,
integrate it into your daily diet: Research confirms that the best results are
achieved when olive oil is part of a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and
whole grains.
In conclusion, olives and extra virgin olive oil genuinely contain nutrients and antioxidant compounds that support heart health, combat inflammation, and improve digestion. However, the idea that drinking oil or eating olives on an empty stomach provides "magical" benefits currently lacks scientific basis.
The true benefits come from integrating olives and olive oil into a
healthy and balanced dietary pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet, while
ensuring moderation to avoid any side effects.
