The study was conducted by a team of researchers at the University of São Paulo in Brazil, led by Ariadne Perez, where they subjected mice to a high-fat diet, with olive oil added to the diet of one group.
After several weeks, the researchers observed a decrease in inflammation levels within the arcuate nucleus, a part of the hypothalamus that plays an important role in regulating appetite and energy consumption, and which is affected by obesity-related changes.
The researchers noted that these results may pave the way for further studies on the role of extra virgin olive oil in reducing metabolic disorders associated with obesity, although confirming these benefits in humans requires additional research.
Extra virgin olive oil is distinguished by being extracted through mechanical means without resorting to chemical refining processes. It also contains polyphenols and vitamin E, which possess antioxidant properties and may contribute to supporting general health.
Despite the promising results, the study was conducted on animals, and its findings cannot be directly generalized to humans or consider olive oil a proven means of preventing obesity. Balanced nutrition and physical activity remain the fundamental pillars for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risks of metabolic disorders.
