Harvard Study: Boost Heart and Brain Health with This Daily Olive Oil Habit

Written by Camilla Jessen

Oct.29 - 2024 4:41 PM CET

Health
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Photo: Shutterstock.com
New research from Harvard suggests that a daily teaspoon of olive oil can reduce the risk of heart disease.

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A long-term study from Harvard University suggests that a daily teaspoon of olive oil can not only lower the risk of cardiovascular disease but also reduce the risk of death from dementia.

The study, which followed over 92,000 participants over 28 years, found that those who regularly consumed olive oil had a 28 percent lower death rate from dementia.

This discovery could play a significant role in preventing age-related diseases.

According to CHIP, olive oil is rich in vitamin E and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties and protect brain cells. Even individuals with less healthy diets experience the positive effects of olive oil.

Study lead Anne-Julie Tessier explained that simply replacing five grams of margarine or mayonnaise with olive oil could further reduce dementia risk by 8 to 14 percent.

Nutrition scientist Anne Danahy also addresses the importance of olive oil, recommending its regular use in the kitchen for its antioxidant properties, which help relieve and protect blood vessels.

These findings support the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes olive oil, vegetables, fruit, and fish.

Studies show that this diet can strengthen the heart and brain over time, contributing to a higher quality of life in old age.