Olive Oil In Coffee Benefits, Risks, And How To Make

Adding olive oil to coffee has surged in popularity, largely thanks to Starbucks’ Oleato line launched in 2023, sparking curiosity about its health impacts. This trend blends the antioxidants of coffee with olive oil’s healthy fats, potentially offering benefits like reduced inflammation and sustained energy, though experts urge moderation due to calorie concerns.

What Is Olive Oil Coffee—and Why Is Starbucks Serving It?

Olive oil coffee involves mixing extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) into brewed coffee, creating a creamy, less acidic beverage similar to bulletproof coffee but with Mediterranean flair. Starbucks popularized it with Oleato, infusing espresso with EVOO for a velvety texture and nutty flavor.

The trend draws from Sicilian traditions and wellness influencers promoting it for gut health and satiety. Starbucks’ version uses part-skim mozzarella-infused oil initially, but standard recipes call for 1 tablespoon EVOO per cup.

• Origins: Rooted in ancient practices; modern hype from social media and Starbucks’ global rollout.
• Taste profile: Smooth, buttery mouthfeel reducing coffee’s bitterness.
• Preparation: Blend hot coffee with EVOO; froth for emulsion.

Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil in Coffee

Both ingredients boast bioactive compounds: coffee provides caffeine and chlorogenic acids, while EVOO offers oleic acid, polyphenols, and vitamin E. Combined, they may amplify effects on metabolism, inflammation, and cognition.

Rich in Antioxidants for Immunity and Anti-Aging

Coffee and EVOO are antioxidant powerhouses. Coffee’s polyphenols combat oxidative stress, linked to lower risks of diabetes and neurodegeneration. EVOO’s hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein fight free radicals, supporting skin health and immunity.

Studies show this duo enhances antioxidant capacity, potentially slowing aging and boosting cellular repair.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation underlies diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. EVOO’s oleocanthal mimics ibuprofen’s effects, while coffee’s compounds reduce inflammatory markers. Together, they may alleviate joint pain and autoimmune issues.

Supports Heart Health

EVOO, central to the Mediterranean diet, lowers LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. Coffee moderates cardiovascular risk at 3-5 cups daily. Their synergy may cut stroke and heart disease odds.

• Improves endothelial function.
• Raises HDL cholesterol.
• Reduces hypertension risk.

May Aid Weight Loss and Appetite Control

Olive oil’s monounsaturated fats promote satiety; coffee’s caffeine boosts metabolism. This combo mimics keto coffee, curbing hunger and aiding fat oxidation—though calories (120 per tbsp) demand portion control.

Boosts Energy and Mental Clarity

Caffeine provides quick energy; EVOO’s fats enable steady release, avoiding crashes. Users report enhanced focus, akin to MCT oil benefits.

Skin, Hair, and Joint Benefits

Antioxidants protect collagen for youthful skin; anti-inflammatories ease joints. EVOO nourishes hair follicles internally.

Potential Diabetes Prevention

Coffee improves insulin sensitivity; EVOO enhances glucose metabolism. Moderate intake may lower type 2 diabetes risk by 20-30%.

Nutritional Breakdown: Olive Oil vs. Coffee

Data adapted from USDA standards; 1 tbsp EVOO + 8oz coffee.

Does Olive Oil Coffee Really Help with Weight Loss?

Yes, potentially: fats delay gastric emptying for fullness; caffeine increases thermogenesis. A study on olive pomace-coffee blends showed antihyperglycemic effects. However, excess calories hinder deficits—limit to 1 tbsp.

Expert Opinions: Dietitians Weigh In

University of Utah’s Amy Dvorak notes: “Unsaturated fats like EVOO boost health if replacing bad fats, but won’t cure disease alone.” FDA caps coffee at 400mg caffeine/day; EVOO at 1.5 tbsp for heart benefits.

Peer-reviewed research confirms polyphenols’ role in cardiometabolic health, but human trials on the combo are limited.

How to Make Olive Oil Coffee at Home

1. Brew 8-12oz strong coffee.
2. Add 1 tsp-1 tbsp EVOO (start low).
3. Blend 20-30 seconds for froth.
4. Optional: Honey, cinnamon; avoid sugar.

Choose cold-pressed EVOO for max polyphenols.

Risks and Downsides of Olive Oil in Coffee

• Calorie-dense: 119kcal/tbsp adds up.
• Digestive upset: If unaccustomed to fats.
• Quality matters: Rancid oil negates benefits.
• Not for all: Gallbladder issues? Consult doctor.

Starbucks Oleato: What Makes It Different?

Oleato uses custom EVOO blends, available as lattes or cold brews. Prices: $5-7; mixed reviews on greasiness. Discontinued in some markets by 2024, but DIY persists.

Alternatives to Olive Oil Coffee

• Bulletproof: Butter + MCT oil.
• Nut milks: Almond for creaminess.
• Collagen coffee: Protein boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is olive oil coffee good for you?

Moderately, yes—antioxidants and healthy fats support heart and metabolic health, per studies.

How much olive oil in coffee?

1 tsp-1 tbsp; more risks calories without extra gain.

Does Starbucks still sell Oleato?

Availability varies; check local menus—trend peaked 2023.

Can olive oil coffee help lose weight?

It aids satiety and metabolism but pairs with diet/exercise.

Is it safe daily?

Yes for most; consult pros if health conditions exist.

Extra virgin or regular olive oil?

EVOO only—highest polyphenols.

Medha Deb

Health Writer