Does olive oil lower your risk of dementia-related death?

Recent studies point to a favorable association between olive oil intake and a lowered dementia death risk. Given the rising frequency of dementia and the great impact it causes on people and healthcare systems, this is fascinating news.

Olive Oil Use and Dementia Death Rates

This link was investigated in a 2024 paper by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health posted on JAMA Network Open. Two major, long-term studies—the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study and the Nurses’ Health Study—had their data examined by researchers. Tens of thousands of people’s health and behaviors were studied in these research across several decades.

The study concentrated on olive oil intake as well as death linked to dementia. Those who ate at least 7 grams (about half a tablespoon) of olive oil daily had a 28% lower risk of dementia-related death than those who hardly or never ate it, according the researchers.

Why Might Olive Oil Show Protection?

Though the precise processes are unknown, scientists think numerous elements may be involved:

Monounsaturated fats, a kind thought to be good for heart and brain function, abound in olive oil. These lipids could lower inflammation and increase blood flow, hence possibly shielding brain cells.

Olive oil has antioxidants that fight free radicals, dangerous substances damaging brain cells among other cells. Reducing oxidative stress might preserve cognitive ability.

Olive oil is a pillar of the Mediterranean diet, which has been connected to many health advantages including a reduced risk of cognitive decline. This diet stresses fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and seafood, maybe working in concert with the qualities of olive oil.

Crucially important considerations are

Observational Study: This study was observational, hence it cannot conclusively show whether or not olive oil intake reduces the incidence of dementia-related death. Other lifestyle choices linked with olive oil consumption could be important.

Amount Counts: The study points to a benefit at a particular consumption level—about 7 grams daily. More study is required to ascertain the ideal level and the possible effects of increased intakes.

Extra virgin olive oil’s higher antioxidant level makes it usually regarded as the healthiest kind. Select reliable brands always to avoid products with adulteration.

All things considered, the results provide encouraging proof that adding olive oil to your diet could be a basic approach to help brain function and maybe lower the chance of death connected to dementia.

Here are some further ideas to consider:

Overall cognitive health depends on a decent lifestyle with frequent exercise, a balanced diet, and proper sleeping hygiene.

See a healthcare practitioner for individualised advice if you are worried about dementia risk.

Although olive oil could help, it is not a panacea for dementia. Early underlying problem detection and treatment are absolutely vital.

Future directions of research:

More study is required to confirm the link between dementia and olive oil use. Stronger proof of a cause- and- effect link could come from clinical trials. Investigating particular olive oil components in charge of its protective properties might also be worthwhile.

Finally, adding olive oil to a healthy diet seems to be a good way to improve brain function and maybe lower the death risk connected to dementia. This is a fascinating advancement in the fight against dementia even although additional study is required.