Olive Oil and Dementia: What a 28-Year Study Reveals
When it comes to nutrition and long-term health, small habits can make a big difference. A study published in 2024 looked at something so simple—olive oil—and its potential role in reducing dementia-related mortality.
Researchers followed nearly 100,000 adults over the course of 28 years to better understand the relationship between olive oil consumption and dementia outcomes. What they found was significant: individuals who consumed at least 7 grams of olive oil per day (about half a tablespoon) had an almost 30% lower risk of death related to dementia compared to those who rarely or never consumed olive oil.
What This Really Means
Before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to remember: this study shows correlation, not direct cause and effect. In other words, while higher olive oil intake was associated with lower dementia mortality, it doesn’t necessarily mean olive oil alone prevents dementia.
Still, this research adds another piece to the bigger picture of how diet and lifestyle affect brain health. Diets higher in olive oil—like the Mediterranean diet—have long been linked to heart health, lower inflammation, and better overall aging. This study just provides one more reason to appreciate the role olive oil may play in supporting long-term cognitive health.
The Big Takeaway
Incorporating more olive oil into your diet is a simple, low-risk change that might have real benefits over time. And even if it doesn’t dramatically alter your dementia risk, it’s unlikely to cause harm. Olive oil is a healthy fat, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making it a smart choice for general wellness.
One easy strategy? Substitute olive oil for margarine or other less healthy fats when cooking. It’s a small swap that could make a meaningful difference over decades.
Final Thoughts
Healthy living is about layering small, positive choices over time. Adding a little more olive oil to your daily meals is just one example of how a minor change can support bigger health goals. While it’s not a magic bullet, it’s an easy, accessible way to invest in your future health—one meal at a time.
