Olive Oil in Mediterranean Diet Linked to Lower Body Weight

The University of Navarra in Spain reported recently that a diet rich in virgin olive oil reduces body weight, especially in those genetically inclined to gain weight.  Over one thousand research particpants were placed on a  Mediterranean diet and monitored by lead researcher, Ph.D. candidate Cristina Razquin:

This consisted of a high intake of fruit and vegetables and of non-refined cereals and fish, and the use of virgin olive oil as the main source of fatty food. Moreover, a high intake of legumes and nuts is recommended.

We’ll have more details when the research is published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.  Olive oil is a type of fat.  This finding of lower body weight on an olive 0il-rich Mediterranean diet run counter to the generally accepted idea that dietary fat causes body fat.  Lower body weight is linked to lower risk of diabetes.

Steve Parker, M.D.

Reference:  A diet rich in virgin olive oil reduces body weight, according to research by the University of Navarra.  Press release, August 3, 2009.