For years, extra virgin olive oil has been celebrated as a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet. It's valued for its flavor, versatility, healthy fats, and naturally occurring plant compounds. Now, new research is giving us another fascinating reason to appreciate quality olive oil—its potential connection to gut health and cognitive health.

What Does Olive Oil Have to Do With the Brain?

A recent study led by researchers at Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV) in Spain examined the relationship between olive oil consumption, the gut microbiome, and cognitive function.

The study, published in Microbiome in 2026, followed 656 adults between the ages of 55 and 75 for two years. The participants were part of the larger PREDIMED-Plus research project, a major Spanish study investigating how a Mediterranean diet and lifestyle interventions affect health.  The project has provided researchers with an extensive collection of dietary, health, and biological data. This allows scientists to explore specific questions—such as the relationship between olive oil, gut bacteria, and cognitive health.

Researchers found that people who consumed more extra virgin olive oil had greater gut microbiota diversity and better preservation of cognitive function during the study period. They also identified specific gut bacteria, including Adlercreutzia, that may be involved in the relationship between olive oil consumption, gut health, and cognitive function. These findings are particularly interesting because they add to our growing understanding of the gut-brain axis—the complex communication between the digestive system and the brain. 

 

What Is the Gut-Brain Connection?

Our digestive system is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. These microorganisms interact with the foods we eat and play important roles in digestion, metabolism, immune function, and other processes throughout the body.

Scientists are increasingly studying how these microorganisms communicate with the brain and how diet can influence this relationship. The URV research suggests that the gut microbiota may play a role in the association between virgin olive oil consumption and cognitive function. In other words, what we eat may influence much more than our immediate nutrition—it may also interact with the ecosystem living inside our digestive system.

Why Does the Type of Olive Oil Matter?

One of the most interesting aspects of this research is the distinction between virgin and refined olive oils. Extra virgin olive oil is produced through mechanical processes, while refined olive oil undergoes additional processing. Refining can reduce some of the naturally occurring compounds found in virgin olive oil, including polyphenols and other bioactive components.

Extra virgin olive oil is the highest grade of virgin olive oil. Because it is obtained through mechanical extraction and meets specific chemical and sensory standards, it retains many of the natural compounds found in the olive, such as Monounsaturated Fats, Phenols, and Vitamin E.

 

NOTE: It's important to remember that this particular study does not prove that olive oil alone prevents dementia or cognitive decline. Rather, it found an association between virgin olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function. More research is needed to understand exactly how these factors interact.

 

Simple Ways to Enjoy More Olive Oil

Adding extra virgin olive oil to your everyday meals doesn't have to be complicated.

Make a simple dressing
Combine EVOO with your favorite balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, herbs, and a pinch of salt.

Finish roasted vegetables
A drizzle of olive oil after roasting adds freshness and flavor.

Dress fresh tomatoes
Tomatoes, basil, sea salt, and good olive oil make a simple and delicious combination.

Finish fish and seafood
Try a lemon-infused olive oil over grilled or baked fish.

Dip and enjoy
Pour your favorite EVOO into a small dish with herbs and sea salt and serve with fresh bread.

Finish soups, beans, and grains
A drizzle of EVOO can add richness and a beautiful finishing touch.

Try it in baking and desserts
Mild or fruity olive oils can be wonderful in cakes and baked fruit or drizzled over vanilla ice cream.

 

 

 

 

Research & Further Reading:

Ni J, Nishi SK, Babio N, et al. “Total and different types of olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function changes in older adults.” Microbiome. 2026;14:68.

The study used data from the PREDIMED-Plus project and was led by researchers including scientists from Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV) and collaborating institutions.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. The study found associations between virgin olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function; it did not establish that olive oil alone prevents cognitive decline or disease.