Should you take olive oil as a supplement?

Answer:

No, probably not. Although extra virgin olive oil has demonstrated a number of possible health benefits, such as reduced risk of heart disease and improved blood sugar control, these and other benefits have generally been demonstrated when olive oil is included (at about 2 to 5 tablespoons daily) in the diet as a replacement for saturated fats, not when taken as a supplement. See the What It Does section of our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review for details. Also, for details about how to cook with and store olive oil, see the ConsumerTips section of the Review.

While olive oil contains a high concentration of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that may help lower cholesterol when used in place of saturated fatty acids in the diet, replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fat — such as the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil — may have greater heart benefits. For a comparison of the heart health benefits of oils such as olive oil, fish oil, and others, see our CL Answer, "Which oils can help lower my cholesterol and risk of heart attack?"

While olive oil does contain a small amount of omega-7 fatty acids, there is no good clinical evidence to back up the promoted health benefits of omega-7 fatty acids. Furthermore, fish oil and sea buckthorn are generally the best sources to obtain this fatty acid.

Keep in mind that, just like any "healthy" oil, olive oil is a fat and will contribute calories just like any fat. Consequently, it is best to include it in moderation as a replacement for less healthy fats, but not in addition to normal fat intake. Also, olive oil may enhance the effects of certain medications. See the Concerns and Cautions section of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review for details.