Drinking olive oil has become increasingly popular, from morning shots to adding it to coffee. But is it actually beneficial, and do you need to do it? Here is everything you need to know about drinking olive oil, including how much to take, when to take it, and whether it offers any advantage over simply cooking with it.
Can You Drink Olive Oil?
Yes. Olive oil, particularly extra virgin, is meant to be consumed both cooked and raw. It is safe to drink and has been part of Mediterranean food culture for centuries. You can take it as a shot, stir it into coffee, or add it to other drinks.
Should You Drink Olive Oil?
That depends on how you already use it. If you cook with extra virgin olive oil daily and use it to finish dishes, you are already getting the health benefits and there is no need to drink it separately. If you eat out frequently or do not cook much at home, taking a daily shot is a practical way to get the nutrients you would otherwise miss.
Drinking olive oil does not unlock additional health benefits beyond what you get from cooking with it. The health benefits of EVOO come from its polyphenols, antioxidants, and monounsaturated fats, all of which are available whether the oil is consumed raw or used in cooking. Learn more about polyphenol-rich olive oil here.
How to Drink Olive Oil
The most common method is a straight shot, similar to how people take wheatgrass or other wellness shots. Some people add it to their morning coffee for a richer, more satiating drink, not unlike butter coffee. Here is how to do it simply:
- Measure 1 tablespoon of high-quality extra virgin olive oil into a small glass.
- Drink it straight, ideally alongside or after food rather than on a completely empty stomach.
We do not recommend adding olive oil to cold smoothies. Fat solidifies at lower temperatures, which affects the texture and makes it harder for the body to process efficiently.
How Much Olive Oil Should You Drink Per Day?
The general recommendation is about 2 tablespoons of olive oil per day total, whether through cooking, finishing dishes, or drinking it directly. If you are taking it as a shot, 1 tablespoon once a day is a reasonable starting point. Some people take it first thing in the morning for an energy boost; others prefer it with a meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is drinking olive oil safe?
Yes. Extra virgin olive oil is safe to consume raw and has been eaten this way for thousands of years. It is not a supplement or a concentrate — it is a whole food that happens to work well both cooked and uncooked.
Can you drink olive oil on an empty stomach?
You can, but we prefer taking it alongside food. Consuming olive oil with food supports digestion and helps the body absorb its fat-soluble nutrients more effectively. On a fully empty stomach, some people experience mild nausea, especially at first.
Does drinking olive oil give you more health benefits than cooking with it?
No. The polyphenols, antioxidants, and healthy fats in extra virgin olive oil are available whether the oil is raw or lightly cooked. Drinking it straight is a convenient delivery method, not a superior one. The key is simply using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil consistently.
What type of olive oil is best for drinking?
Only drink extra virgin olive oil. It is the least processed grade, retains the most natural antioxidants and polyphenols, and has the best flavor. Regular, light, or pure olive oil is refined and stripped of most of the compounds that make it worth consuming in the first place. Our Calabrian EVOO is a good choice — mild enough to drink straight with a clean, fruity finish.
Can you add olive oil to coffee?
Yes, and it is surprisingly good. Add a teaspoon to a shot of espresso or a cup of black coffee and stir well. The fat rounds out the bitterness of the coffee and gives it a richer, smoother texture. See our olive oil coffee recipe here.
Shop EXAU extra virgin olive oil, produced in Calabria, Italy.
We wrote a book called The Olive Oil Enthusiast. Order your copy today.
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1 comment
Thank you for that information,It was interesting and helpful
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