Researchers from the Universitat Rovira i Virgili found that adults who consumed virgin olive oil showed improved cognitive function and greater gut microbiota diversity over two years.
Virgin olive oil linked to better cognition and gut diversity
Participants who regularly used virgin olive oil experienced improvements in cognitive function and had a more diverse gut microbiota, which is widely considered a sign of better intestinal and metabolic health. In contrast, those who consumed refined olive oil tended to show a decline in microbiota diversity over time. The study followed 656 adults aged 55 to 75 who were overweight or obese and had metabolic syndrome.
Specific gut bacteria may mediate the cognitive benefits
Researchers identified a specific group of gut bacteria, Adlercreutzia, that may be tied to these benefits. Its presence could serve as an indicator of the positive relationship between virgin olive oil consumption and preserved cognitive function. These results suggest that part of the oil’s brain-supporting effect may come from how it reshapes the gut microbiome.
Production method determines olive oil’s bioactive content
Extra virgin olive oil is obtained using mechanical methods, which help preserve its natural compounds. Refined olive oil undergoes industrial processing to remove impurities, which as well reduces beneficial components such as antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins and other bioactive substances. According to Jiaqi Ni, not all olive oils have benefits for cognitive function, highlighting the importance of choosing extra virgin varieties.
What type of olive oil showed cognitive benefits in the study?
Virgin olive oil, specifically extra virgin olive oil produced through mechanical methods without refining, was linked to improved cognitive function and greater gut microbiota diversity.
How long did the study track participants?
The research followed participants over a two-year period as part of the PREDIMED-Plus project, tracking diet, gut microbiota, and cognitive performance changes.