Extra virgin olive oil offers heart and brain health benefits

Nutritionists highlight the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), particularly for heart, brain, and digestive health. The oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and plant compounds known as polyphenols, which are studied for their ability to reduce inflammation and potentially protect neural pathways against cognitive decline.

Experts recommend using EVOO in dressings or for moderate-temperature cooking to preserve its benefits. While some popular wellness trends suggest consuming a mixture of EVOO and lemon juice on an empty stomach to 'cleanse' the liver, specialists warn that this combination is not a medical treatment and does not perform miraculous liver detoxification. While the ingredients can be part of a balanced diet, individual effects vary, and such mixtures should not replace professional medical advice or general healthy lifestyle habits.