Why A Mediterranean Diet Makes You Live Longer

Why a Mediterranean Diet Rich in Olive Oil Helps You Live Longer

When it comes to living a long, healthy life, the Mediterranean region has long held the crown. Countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain boast some of the world’s highest life expectancies—and one key ingredient runs through nearly every meal: extra virgin olive oil.

The Science of Longevity (and Olive Oil)

Decades of research have linked the Mediterranean diet to reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. At the heart of this healthful way of eating is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), used not just as a cooking fat but as a daily staple—drizzled over vegetables, stirred into soups, or simply enjoyed with fresh bread.

Why does it work? EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats, especially oleic acid, which supports heart health by lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol and increasing “good” HDL. Even more impressively, it’s packed with polyphenols—potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer properties.

What Makes Olive Oil So Unique?

Unlike processed seed oils, extra virgin olive oil is made by simply pressing fresh olives—no chemicals, no refining, and no high-heat treatments. This preserves the oil’s natural antioxidants and flavour compounds, especially in early harvest oils. It’s not just a source of fat; it’s a nutrient-dense superfood.

The Mediterranean way of eating also revolves around real, seasonal food—vegetables, legumes, fruits, whole grains, and moderate amounts of fish, cheese, and wine. But EVOO is the daily hero, consumed in generous amounts—up to four tablespoons a day in some regions.

Longevity in Practice

Take Ikaria, Greece—nicknamed the “Island Where People Forget to Die.” Ikarians consume a diet rich in olive oil, beans, wild greens, and herbs. They also cook nearly every meal with olive oil and drizzle it liberally over everything from lentils to potatoes. The result? Exceptionally low rates of chronic disease and some of the longest lifespans on the planet.

How to Make It Work for You

You don’t have to move to the Mediterranean to reap the benefits. Start by:

• Switching all your cooking oils to extra virgin olive oil

• Using it raw as a dressing or dip—don’t save it for special occasions

• Cooking from scratch more often with fresh, seasonal ingredients

• Avoiding ultra-processed foods and industrial seed oils

When you make olive oil the foundation of your diet, you’re not just improving your meals—you’re investing in your long-term health.

Ready to switch to real extra virgin olive oil?
Shop our hand-picked oil from award-winning Spanish producers and start living the Mediterranean way—where health, flavour, and longevity go hand in hand.