Side Effects of Olive Oil
Apr 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Zhengxin
Introduction
Olive oil has several side effects: it generates a relatively large amount of toxic substances and impairs digestion and absorption. Moreover, olive oil has a relatively low boiling point. During daily cooking—especially high-temperature stir-frying—it produces significant smoke. This smoke contains harmful substances such as acrolein, benzene, and formaldehyde, which can be inhaled during cooking and may cause harm to the body.
Olive oil is a natural skincare and haircare oil, as well as a commonly used edible oil with a history spanning several thousand years. It is a green, natural, plant-based skincare product. Due to its beneficial effects on skin and hair, some beauty-conscious individuals apply olive oil directly to their face or hair. While olive oil does offer certain skincare and haircare benefits, using it for cooking may lead to some adverse effects. What are the potential side effects of olive oil?
Side Effects of Olive Oil
When heated, olive oil can generate substantial amounts of toxic substances and impair digestion and nutrient absorption. Its relatively low smoke point makes it unsuitable for high-heat cooking methods such as stir-frying. Under high temperatures, olive oil produces significant smoke containing harmful compounds—including acrolein, benzene, and formaldehyde—which may be inhaled during cooking and cause bodily harm. In severe cases, prolonged exposure to these toxins may increase cancer risk.
When olive oil is used repeatedly for high-temperature cooking, it may produce trans fatty acids. Once ingested, trans fatty acids can cause harm to the human body. Since they cannot be properly digested or absorbed, trans fatty acids tend to accumulate in the body.
Caution is still advised when consuming olive oil. First, it’s important to understand its contraindications and carefully consider its intended use. For instance, using olive oil in cold dishes—such as salads—is generally more effective and represents a healthier, more nutritious option. We hope this information proves helpful!
