Olive oil is commonly referred to as the "golden liquid" due to its benefits, but many experts oppose this "hype" on the grounds that excessive consumption can have adverse effects. According to the British newspaper "Daily Mail," experts warn that overindulging in olive oil could lead to health issues related to heart disease and obesity. Nutritionist Michelle Rothenstein stated that one patient was drinking a cup of olive oil daily, and this not only hindered their weight loss efforts but also negatively impacted their cholesterol levels, as such large amounts of olive oil are high in fat.
She added, "Excessive consumption of olive oil without controlling the quantity can lead to an imbalance in energy intake, which may contribute to subsequent weight gain or difficulty in achieving weight loss goals." The trend of using olive oil surged in the 1990s, when the Mediterranean diet became popular for relying on healthy fats, contrasting with the high-carbohydrate, low-fat diets that were common at that time.
This diet, inspired by the traditional cuisines of Mediterranean countries, emphasizes vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, nuts, and proteins. Experts state that there is no harm in consuming moderate amounts of olive oil as part of a balanced diet, but there is no need to excessively drink it.
