Science continues to confirm what tradition has long upheld: extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is not only a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet but also a powerful ally for overall health. A recent scientific review published in Nutrition Reviews (Oxford Academic) has examined in depth the effects of EVOO on the gut-brain axis—a complex system linking gut health to brain function—and its broader benefits on immunity, cardiovascular health, and metabolism.
📖 You can read the full scientific article.
The healthy composition of EVOO: more than just fat
The review highlights that EVOO—especially when certified for quality, like that of the Estepa Designation of Origin—is rich in monounsaturated fats such as oleic acid, as well as in bioactive phenolic compounds, including:
Oleuropein
Hydroxytyrosol
Oleocanthal
These compounds exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial for preventing chronic diseases.
One of the most notable findings of the study is EVOO’s positive impact on gut microbiota, which plays a key role in maintaining immune and neurological balance.
✅ Regular consumption of EVOO:
Increases microbial diversity, promoting beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium
Reduces harmful bacteria such as Desulfovibrionaceae
Stimulates the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which help reduce intestinal inflammation and strengthen the gut lining
Immunity and intestinal tolerance
EVOO also contributes to a healthier immune response in the gut by:
Stimulating the production of Immunoglobulin A (IgA)
Promoting anti-inflammatory cytokines, helping the body tolerate external agents
Enhancing defense mechanisms against pathogens—key for preventing intestinal and inflammatory diseases
Cardiovascular and metabolic health: strong scientific support
The review reinforces earlier findings from landmark studies such as PREDIMED, which showed that a Mediterranean diet rich in EVOO:
Lowers cardiovascular risk
Improves insulin sensitivity
Reduces blood pressure and blood glucose levels
Enhances lipid profiles by balancing HDL and LDL cholesterol
Cognitive decline prevention
One of the most forward-looking aspects of the study is the connection between EVOO and brain health. EVOO’s polyphenols:
Are associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline
Improve memory and synaptic plasticity
Help reduce the buildup of neurotoxic proteins like β-amyloid and tau
The role of the gut-brain axis
The gut-brain axis—the communication network linking the gastrointestinal tract and the brain—is influenced by the gut microbiota. When this microbiota is balanced through EVOO consumption:
It produces beneficial metabolites such as SCFAs
It impacts neurotransmitters like GABA, which are involved in behavior and cognitive regulation
This discovery opens new avenues for exploring how diet can support mental and emotional health.
This latest research confirms that extra virgin olive oil, particularly when certified under the Estepa Designation of Origin, is not just a functional food—it’s a vital tool in the prevention and management of chronic illnesses.
Whether you’re dressing salads, preparing traditional dishes, or integrating it into a balanced diet, EVOO is an ingredient that supports your well-being—from your gut to your brain.
📌 Learn more about EVOO and health on our blog.