Scientists have found that regular consumption of virgin olive oil is linked to improved cognitive function and greater gut microbiome diversity in adults aged 55 to 75 with metabolic syndrome.
How virgin olive oil affects gut bacteria and brain health
A two-year study of 656 overweight or obese adults showed that those who consistently used virgin olive oil experienced better cognitive performance and a more diverse gut microbiota compared to those who consumed refined olive oil.
The research, conducted as part of the PREDIMED-Plus project, tracked participants’ diets and analyzed changes in gut bacteria and cognitive function over time.
Jiaqi Ni, lead author and researcher at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili’s Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, stated this is the first human study to specifically examine olive oil’s role in the interaction between gut microbiota and cognitive function.
Why the type of olive oil matters for cognitive outcomes
The study observed changes over a two-year period, suggesting consistent long-term intake may be necessary to influence cognitive function and gut microbiota.
The study observed changes over a two-year period, suggesting consistent long-term intake may be necessary to influence cognitive function and gut microbiota.
How virgin olive oil affects gut bacteria and brain health
A two-year study of 656 overweight or obese adults showed that those who consistently used virgin olive oil experienced better cognitive performance and a more diverse gut microbiota compared to those who consumed refined olive oil.
The research, conducted as part of the PREDIMED-Plus project, tracked participants’ diets and analyzed changes in gut bacteria and cognitive function over time.
Jiaqi Ni, lead author and researcher at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili’s Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, stated this is the first human study to specifically examine olive oil’s role in the interaction between gut microbiota and cognitive function.
Why the type of olive oil matters for cognitive outcomes
Virgin olive oil is produced mechanically, preserving natural compounds like polyphenols and antioxidants, while refined olive oil undergoes industrial processing that reduces these beneficial components.
Participants who consumed virgin olive oil had higher levels of Adlercreutzia, a gut bacteria group potentially linked to the cognitive benefits observed in the study.
What type of olive oil should people choose for brain health?
Virgin olive oil, particularly extra virgin, is recommended over refined varieties due to its higher retention of bioactive compounds that support gut and cognitive health.
How long might it grab to see cognitive benefits from virgin olive oil?
The study observed changes over a two-year period, suggesting consistent long-term intake may be necessary to influence cognitive function and gut microbiota.
