Drinking olive oil at night has been a trend among individuals who want to enhance digestion, sleep, or general health. It may seem strange, but there is an age-old practice—especially among Mediterranean cultures—of consuming extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) not only for cooking but also as a home remedy.
Extra virgin olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which can promote various body processes. A small dose before sleep is believed to soothe the digestive tract, aid in overnight nutrient absorption, and even stabilize hormones. Though the science is lagging on some of the assertions, the concept is based on using food to enhance the body’s natural rhythms.
Possible Advantages of Olive Oil Consumption before Bedtime
Perhaps the most widely discussed reason to take olive oil at night is its potential impact on digestion. For those who have bloating, light indigestion or irregular bowel movements, a nightly dose of a tablespoon of EVOO might get things rolling smoothly. It functions as an all-natural lubricant for the digestive system, making waste more easily processed by the body come morning.
Some individuals also think that fatty acids in olive oil stabilize blood sugar levels during the night. Although further investigation is necessary, fats such as oleic acid will retard the uptake of glucose, which might enhance more stable energy throughout sleep. This will be particularly helpful for individuals who wake up in the middle of the night with blood sugar drops.
Olive oil also consists of compounds such as oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, which are anti-inflammatory. Lowering inflammation in the evening can facilitate quality sleep, particularly for individuals who experience joint pain or sore muscles.
How Much to Take and What Type to Use
If you’re considering trying olive oil before bed, less is more. A teaspoon to a tablespoon is usually enough. Drinking too much can lead to an upset stomach or loose bowels, particularly if your body isn’t used to digesting pure oils on their own.
You need to select good-quality extra virgin olive oil. Opt for cold-pressed varieties free from additives, packed in dark glass containers in order to keep the oil away from light and oxygen. Lower grade or highly processed oils will not be equivalent in terms of nutritional value and may not provide the same level of benefits.
Some like to blend the oil with a small amount of lemon juice or warm water to mellow out the flavor and facilitate swallowing. Others take it by itself, accompanied by a glass of water.
Are There Any Risks?
For the average healthy adult, a little bit of extra virgin olive oil at night is harmless. Nevertheless, individuals with specific digestive issues—like gallbladder disease or acid reflux—will have to consult a healthcare provider prior to attempting it. Pure oil may occasionally cause discomfort in some people with delicate stomachs, particularly if taken on an empty stomach.
It’s also worth noting that olive oil is calorie-dense. A tablespoon contains around 120 calories, so if you’re watching your weight or tracking your intake closely, it’s something to be mindful of. That said, the nutritional quality of the calories in olive oil is much higher than in most late-night snacks. Contact us to know more information on why it is good to drinking olive oil before bed.