I Drank Olive Oil Every Morning for Two Weeks: Here's What Happened

Extra virgin olive oil has long been considered one of the healthiest foods in the Mediterranean diet. Rich in heart healthy fats and powerful antioxidants, it has been linked to lower cholesterol levels, reduced inflammation, and better heart and brain health.

Recently, however, a new social media trend has taken olive oil enthusiasm to another level. Instead of simply using it in meals, some influencers encourage people to drink a daily "shot" of olive oil on an empty stomach, claiming it can boost health and wellness. But does the practice actually provide any extra benefits?

Health journalist Emily Laurence decided to find out for herself.

What Happened When She Drank Olive Oil Every Morning?

Laurence committed to the challenge for two weeks, drinking a small serving of olive oil each morning before eating anything else.

The experience was not particularly pleasant.

She reported that swallowing the oil straight from a cup was difficult. The thick texture and strong flavor made it hard to get down and even triggered a mild choking sensation. Eventually, she began mixing it with water, lemon juice, and a small amount of honey to make it more tolerable.

As for the results, they were underwhelming.

The main change she noticed was feeling fuller earlier in the day, which is not surprising given the healthy fats found in olive oil. Beyond that, she did not experience any significant physical changes during the two week experiment.

What Do Experts Say?

According to medical experts, there is no evidence that drinking olive oil by itself offers any special health advantage over consuming it as part of a balanced diet.

Dr. Randolph Martin, a senior cardiologist in New York, says the trend simply does not align with the way olive oil has traditionally been used in Mediterranean countries.

"In Mediterranean countries, people use large amounts of olive oil to cook vegetables, meats, and pasta," he explains. "A bottle of olive oil is always on the table, but people there have never drunk it in shots."

The Best Way to Enjoy Olive Oil's Benefits

Experts point out that consuming olive oil together with food may actually be the most effective way to benefit from its nutritional properties.

The healthy fats in olive oil help the body absorb important fat soluble vitamins found in other foods, including vitamins A, E, and K. These nutrients are commonly found in vegetables, especially leafy greens.

For that reason, drizzling olive oil over a salad, roasted vegetables, or other healthy meals can provide greater nutritional value than consuming the oil on its own.

The Bottom Line

There is little doubt that extra virgin olive oil deserves its reputation as a healthy dietary staple. Research continues to link it to heart health, longevity, and reduced inflammation.

But according to experts, there is no need to force down a daily shot in pursuit of better health. The simplest approach may also be the best one: make olive oil a regular and delicious part of your meals, and let its benefits work naturally.