The consumption of olive oil

Side Effects of Consuming Olive Oil

Consuming olive oil can have side effects, especially if consumed in excessive amounts or improperly processed. Potential side effects include negative effects on blood pressure, the risk of essential fatty acid deficiencies, diarrhea, accelerated weight gain, and allergic reactions. Furthermore, olive oil may produce carcinogenic substances at excessively high temperatures.

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which are essential for the body, but lacks polyunsaturated fatty acids, which help prevent chronic inflammation in the blood vessels. This could lead to cardiovascular disease, especially in people with vascular disease.

Olive Oil Diarrhea

Some people may also experience allergic reactions to olive oil, manifested by symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, vomiting, flatulence, or diarrhea. These reactions may be due to proteins, which can lead to protein allergies.

To minimize the side effects of olive oil, it should be consumed in moderation. The German Nutrition Society, for example, recommends consuming a maximum of two tablespoons per day. Proper storage is also important to avoid the formation of rancid oil, which can cause digestive discomfort.

Precautions should be taken when heating cold-pressed olive oil, as it can release carcinogenic substances at high temperatures. Refined olive oil is a safer option for high-temperature cooking, as it has lost its healthy components, but it is also less dangerous.

When purchasing olive oil, it is advisable to choose high-quality products and pay attention to quality characteristics such as origin, production process, and protected origin labels. Delicatessens or organic stores often offer the opportunity to taste olive oil before purchase to ensure it meets personal preferences.

Olive Oil Intolerance

The precise diagnosis of olive oil intolerance can be complex, as the symptoms that occur are similar to those of numerous diseases and intolerances, such as abdominal pain, bloating, or nausea.