Is olive oil really as healthy as people claim? How does it compare to other fats? And how do you choose the best product for cooking and everyday use?

In this episode, I take a deep dive into the science behind olive oil—its potential role in longevity, its impact on chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and the key factors that determine quality.

In this episode, we cover:

Olive oil’s role in longevity and overall health
The difference between refined and extra virgin olive oil
How olive oil may influence cardiovascular, cognitive, and metabolic health
What to look for when buying olive oil and how to store it properly
Whether it’s safe to cook with olive oil and how to preserve its benefits

For more details and supporting studies, visit the full show notes.

Introduction (00:00)
Olive Oil for Longevity and Lifespan (00:52)
Olive Oil for Heart Health and Chronic Disease (06:28)
Olive Oil’s Role in Cancer Prevention (07:58)
Olive Oil for Brain Health and Cognitive Function (12:38)
Olive Oil for Metabolic Health and Blood Sugar Control (16:08)
How Olive Oil Supports Overall Health (21:12)
How to Choose High-Quality Olive Oil (25:27)
Best Practices for Cooking and Storing Olive Oil (35:12)
Key Takeaways on Olive Oil’s Health Benefits (41:32)

Want to support the show?

The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offered by our sponsors. To check them out and enjoy great savings, visit theproof.com/friends. You can also support the show by leaving a review on the Apple Podcast app and sharing your favourite episodes with friends and family.

This episode is brought to you by:

38TERA

Consider 38TERA's DMN prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.

Function Health

Track, optimise, and thrive with Function Health. Access 100+ lab tests – five times more than a typical physical – including ApoB and LP(a), no doctor approval needed. Get science-backed insights and track your results over time. Skip the 400,000-person waitlist at functionhealth.com/simonhill. Only available to those living in the United States.

Pique Tea

Pique's Nandaka provides sustainable, all-day energy and makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your body! Try Pique and get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively at Piquelife.com/simon.

Calm

Find your calm anytime, anywhere with Calm, the #1 app for meditation and relaxation. From guided meditations to sleep stories and breathing exercises, Calm helps you reduce stress, improve focus, and sleep better. Visit calm.com/proof for 40% off a premium subscription today.

Applied Nutrition Literacy

Looking to sharpen your nutrition literacy and make smarter, science-based decisions? Enrol in the Applied Nutrition Literacy Course to gain the tools you need to evaluate research confidently. Perfect for nutrition professionals and keen enthusiasts. Join by March 8 here.

Eimele

Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Follow this link for 20% off one-time purchases and subscriptions.

WHOOP

Whoop, the most advanced fitness and health wearable available. Your personalised fitness and health coach to recover faster, sleep better, and train smarter. Claim your first month free on join.whoop.com/simon.

Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)

• Creator of theproof.com

• Host of The Proof with Simon Hill

• Author of The Proof is in the Plants

Subscribe & Connect:

• YouTube

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Instagram: @simonhill

• Twitter: @theproof

• Facebook: The Proof with Simon Hill

Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide and download my Two-Week Meal Plan.