Olive oil may drastically reduce the risk of death from cancer, study of 22,000 people finds
Extra virgin olive oil is one of the most valued foods in modern nutrition and has been widely studied for its health effects. Recent scientific research indicates that its consumption is associated with reduced cancer mortality, especially when consumed regularly.
🔬 Study with Over 22,000 People Reinforces the Benefits
An Italian study published in 2024 by Nature Publishing Group and in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition followed 22,892 men and women, with an average age of 55, over approximately 12 years.
🫒 Olive Oil and Cancer Prevention
What did the study find?
The research revealed that extra virgin olive oil acts as a real ally against cancer. The key point is that protection increases as consumption becomes more frequent.
The most impactful dose:
🥄 3 tablespoons per day: This group reached the highest level of protection, with a 23% lower risk of death from the disease.
How does it work?
📈 Linear effect: It is a progressive benefit, meaning that the more olive oil you incorporate into your diet (within healthy levels), the more your risk decreases.
Proportional comparison:
🤏 Low consumption: Already begins to build protection, even if on a smaller scale.
🚫 No consumption: Shows the highest risk, as there is no benefit from the food’s protective properties.
🏆 Frequent consumers: Experience the greatest risk reduction compared to other groups.
👉 Olive oil is a key component in preventive medicine: starting small is good, but consistency is even better.
🌍 The Mediterranean Diet and the Role of Olive Oil
Olive oil is one of the pillars of the Mediterranean diet, common in countries like Greece and Italy.
This dietary pattern is recognized as one of the healthiest in the world and is characterized by:
- Daily consumption of high-quality olive oil
- A diet rich in natural foods
🏃♂️ This eating habit, combined with an active lifestyle, supports the health benefits observed in large population studies.
🧪 Why Is Olive Oil Considered So Healthy?
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in compounds that help the body:
🟡 Natural antioxidants
Contains vitamin E, vitamin A, and other bioactive compounds
Helps fight oxidative stress and free radicals
🟢 Powerful polyphenols
Substances such as quercetin, resveratrol, and oleocanthal
Act in cellular protection, body balance, and defense against oxidative damage
🔥 Anti-inflammatory action
Reduces chronic inflammation, a factor linked to several diseases, including cancer
🔥 Effects on the Body
Regular olive oil consumption is associated with:
- Reduction of chronic inflammation
- Fighting free radicals
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Contribution to mental health
In addition, studies also link olive oil consumption to protection against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
🧠 Science-Based Conclusion
✔️ Extra virgin olive oil has strong scientific evidence supporting its benefits
✔️ Its consumption is associated with reduced cancer mortality
✔️ The data come from a robust study with thousands of people over a long follow-up period
👉 Within a balanced dietary pattern, olive oil stands out as one of the main allies of health, which is why it is known as the “liquid gold” of nutrition.
📚 Scientific Sources and References
This content is based on a scientific study with a large sample in Italy, linking olive oil consumption to reduced cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality.
🔗 European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Nature Publishing Group):
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41430-024-01442-8
🔗 Nature Publishing Group / PubMed (indexed study abstract):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38704428/