Taking a spoonful of olive oil on an empty stomach is a trend that has gained widespread popularity. This is helmed as a natural remedy for better gut health. Extra virgin olive oil is no doubt packed with healthy fats and antioxidants, but many people wonder if this specific morning ritual actually improves digestive health. To separate fact from fiction, we consulted a leading dietetics expert to understand whether this practice truly impacts your body.
Let us take a look at what Ms Chitra BK, Chief of Dietetics, KIMS Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru has to say about it.
Can Having Olive Oil on an Empty Stomach Help Digestion?
Ms Chitra says that there is a belief among many people that olive oil taken when fasting helps improve digestion.” In my opinion, as a dietitian, olive oil can improve digestive health, but it is not a miracle solution and cannot be recommended to everyone,” she adds.
The expert further explains, “The fact is that olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, contains useful fatty acids and natural antioxidants, which can promote proper functioning of the digestive tract. Taking a small quantity of this product, about 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, will cause the production of enzymes and bile, which will facilitate the process of fat metabolism.”
Who Should Avoid Olive Oil on an Empty Stomach?
Ms Chitra says that there is not much scientific data to support the claim that the consumption of olive oil specifically on an empty stomach offers any additional advantage compared to its intake while having meals.
Emphasising on who should avoid taking it, the expert shares, “Some individuals, especially those with delicate stomachs, acid reflux disease, gallbladder problems, or other digestive problems, can experience some sort of discomfort if they take oil on an empty stomach.”
Other Ways To Improve Digestion
Ms Chitra says that if you like olive oil, using it in your salads, vegetables, and other healthy meals is a great way to benefit from it. “As always, when it comes to food, the trick is balance and using it as part of a healthy diet. Instead of concentrating only on olive oil, it would be a lot more beneficial if one takes into account one’s diet in general to have healthy digestion,” she adds. On this note, she shares that there are some other ways to boost digestion:
- Being hydrated
- Having enough fibre intake through fruits and vegetables
- Keeping proper timing of meals.
ALSO READ- Olive Oil Vs Mustard Oil: Which Is Better For Health?
Conclusion
Consuming olive oil on an empty stomach may stimulate digestive enzymes for some. However, it is not a one-size-fits-all morning ritual for a healthy gut. You can reap all of its nutritional benefits without the risk of stomach discomfort simply by drizzling it over your salads and daily meals. Ultimately, to achieve optimal digestive health, you must follow a balanced lifestyle that combines adequate hydration, high-fibre foods, and consistent eating habits.
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Shruti Das is a health and lifestyle journalist with eight years of experience across print and digital media. She currently works as a Senior Sub Editor at OnlyMyHealth, where she writes on women’s health, sexual health, mental health, nutrition, and skincare.
Her work focuses on breaking down complex health topics and medical research into clear, reader-friendly information. While reporting on health subjects, she relies on credible research, expert insights, and verified medical sources. Shruti taps into her network of doctors and medical experts to get articles that involve medical claims reviewed before publication.
Before joining Jagran New Media, Shruti worked with Patriot Newspaper, HT City (Hindustan Times), and Storytailors, where she developed her foundation in news reporting, lifestyle journalism, and long-form storytelling.
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Current Version
Jun 24, 2026 18:31 IST
Published By : Shruti Das