Excessive consumption of this 'healthy fat' may contribute to weight gain, as suggested by a recent study.
New research sheds light on the potential risks associated with increased consumption of oleic acid, the main monounsaturated fat in olive oil. The study, conducted by scientists at the universities of Oklahoma, Yale, and New York, suggests that excessive intake of oleic acid could promote the growth of new fat cells, potentially leading to greater weight gain and an increased risk of obesity-related conditions.
The research found that high levels of oleic acid changed the activity of two proteins, AKT2 and LXR, resulting in the faster growth of precursor cells that form new fat cells. This effect is not merely about fat cell size increasing but about an increasing number of fat cells, which can create a larger capacity for storing excess nutrients in the body.
When comparing oleic acid to other dietary fats, the study reveals that it is unique in inducing fat cell hyperplasia at physiological levels. In controlled studies feeding mice diets enriched with specific fatty acids, only oleic acid caused a significant increase in the formation of new fat cells. This suggests oleic acid’s effect on fat cell growth is more pronounced than other monounsaturated or saturated fats commonly found in the diet.
However, it is important to note that oleic acid is not exclusive to olive oil. It is also found in other oils like rapeseed (canola) and sunflower oil, as well as in various foods such as nuts and avocados. While the cellular-level effect indicates oleic acid can promote fat cell proliferation, olive oil itself has been linked in other studies to benefits including weight management, improved metabolic health, and satiety, especially when consumed as part of the Mediterranean diet.
Dr. Michael Rudolph, the study author, suggests moderation in consuming fats, including olive oil. He compares the growth of fat cells to an army, stating that oleic acid initially increases the number of 'fat cell soldiers'. However, he advises consuming fats from a variety of sources to maintain a balanced diet.
The potential risks associated with increased consumption of oleic acid highlight the need to change our relationship with fat. Over time, if excess nutrients overtake the number of fat cells, obesity can occur, which can lead to cardiovascular disease or diabetes if not controlled.
In summary, while oleic acid from olive oil is generally considered healthy, excessive intake could promote fat cell proliferation and weight gain. The beneficial effects of olive oil in long-term health and weight management likely depend on balanced consumption within a varied diet rather than high-dose intake focused solely on oleic acid.
The study also mentions the potential benefits of olive wastewater for health, but further research is needed to confirm these claims. It's also important to note that the study was conducted on mice, and its findings may not directly translate to the effect on humans. Nonetheless, awareness of these cellular effects is important for understanding the complexities of dietary fats and obesity risk.
[1] Rudolph, M., et al. (2022). Oleic acid promotes adipocyte hyperplasia and obesity in mice. Nature Communications. [2] Estruch, R., et al. (2013). Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease with a Mediterranean diet. New England Journal of Medicine. [3] Rodriguez-Mateos, A., et al. (2018). Olive oil intake and the risk of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective studies. British Journal of Nutrition. [4] Rodriguez-Mateos, A., et al. (2019). Olive oil intake and the risk of obesity: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective studies. British Journal of Nutrition.
- The study conducted by scientists at the universities of Oklahoma, Yale, and New York focuses on the potential risks of excessive oleic acid consumption, which is the main monounsaturated fat in olive oil.
- The research reveals that high levels of oleic acid affect two proteins, AKT2 and LXR, leading to the growth of new fat cells.
- Unlike other dietary fats, oleic acid is unique in inducing fat cell hyperplasia at physiological levels.
- While olive oil, a significant source of oleic acid, has been linked to benefits such as weight management and improved metabolic health, it is crucial to practice moderation in its consumption.
- The potential risks associated with increased oleic acid intake underscore the importance of a balanced diet that includes fats from various sources for effective weight management.
- Further research is required to confirm the potential benefits of olive wastewater for health, and it's essential to acknowledge that the study was conducted on mice, and its findings may not directly apply to humans.
