Can Olive Oil Help to Prevent Obesity?

Obesity is a growing problem in this country and theres no sign this trend will be reversing anytime soon. Much of the problem can be blamed on the typically high fat, high calorie diet that many Americans consume. In contrast, countries such as Greece that enjoy a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and nuts have a much lower rate of obesity and heart disease. One key component thats thought to play a role in the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet is olive oil. Now, a new study shows that an extract from extra-virgin olive oil could help to prevent obesity.

Can Olive Oil Help to Prevent Obesity? : A Study

In this study, published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, researchers using fat cells obtained from mice, showed that hydroxytyrosol, an antioxidant found in olive oil, stimulated the function of a key cellular component, the mitochondria. The mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell and is responsible for most of the production of energy that drives the cells chemical reactions. The addition of hydroxytyrosol to fat cells makes the mitochondria work even harder to produce energy and could play a key role in helping to prevent obesity as well as lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Its this component that may account for some of the health benefits of olive oil.

Other Benefits of Olive Oil for Obesity

This isnt the only component of olive oil that could help to prevent obesity. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, "good" fats that promote heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol levels. One study showed that a diet rich in monounsaturated fats found in olive oil reduced central obesity, the accumulation of fat in the abdominal region, and enhanced insulin sensitivity; both positive changes for anyone struggling with a weight issue. Replacing other fats, particularly saturated ones, with the heart-healthy monounsaturated fats found in olive oil may be an important factor in helping to prevent obesity in those who are susceptible.

Another study showed that oleic acid, a fatty acid found in olive oil, could help to prevent obesity another way. Oleic acid appears to be converted into a protein that signals to the brain that enough food has been eaten so that fewer calories are consumed. It essentially shuts off hunger signals. Many people could use this kind of help!

One Precaution

Olive oil is high in calories and shouldnt be used in abundance. If future research confirms that olive oil can help to prevent obesity, an olive oil extract could be marketed that would give the benefits without all the calories.