Experts from the American Nutrition Association have announced that incorporating olive oil into the diet reduces the risk of death from dementia by 28 percent. The report presented by the association at its annual meeting in 2023 indicates that many countries are facing rising rates of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, prompting researchers to seek ways to reduce the risk of acquired dementia.
Researchers analyzed dietary questionnaires and death records collected from over 90,000 Americans over three decades, during which more than 4,000 people died from cognitive disorders.
The results showed that individuals who consumed more than half a tablespoon of olive oil daily had a 28 percent lower risk of developing dementia. Additionally, replacing a teaspoon of vegetable shortening or mayonnaise with olive oil reduced the risk of death due to dementia by 8-14 percent.
The report's authors state, "Some antioxidant compounds found in olive oil may cross the blood-brain barrier, which could have a direct effect on the brain. Olive oil may also have an indirect effect on brain health by promoting cardiovascular health."
Scientists emphasize that this study was observational and does not prove that olive oil is the cause of the reduced risk of death from dementia.
