Coffee with Olive Oil Benefits, Recipe, and Is It Right for You?

Consider adding olive oil to your coffee routine for a unique twist. This isn’t just about mixing random ingredients; it’s a novel trend gaining momentum for a reason. This emerging concept could elevate your morning brew with extra health benefits. It’s a unique twist that’s worth exploring!

So, what’s the buzz about coffee with olive oil? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into this trend, exploring the potential benefits, how to make it, and whether it’s something you want to try. Maybe you’ve seen Starbucks’ “Oleato” line and are curious. Well, you’re in the right place! Let’s find out if coffee with olive oil is the right choice for you.

What is Coffee with Olive Oil?

Okay, so what exactly is coffee with olive oil? Simply put, it’s coffee with olive oil added! This simple addition differentiates it from your regular cup of joe. While you might be used to milk, cream, or sugar, this version introduces healthy fats into your cup.

Believe it or not, mixing fat with coffee isn’t new. The Oromo people in Ethiopia were known to combine ground coffee cherries with animal fat, rolling them into balls for an energy boost. Today’s trend also finds roots in the Mediterranean diet. Some folks start their day with a spoonful of olive oil, so adding it to coffee isn’t a giant leap.

Lately, Starbucks has popularized this concoction with their “Oleato” line, bringing coffee with olive oil to the mainstream. It’s a fascinating twist on a traditional beverage!

Why is Coffee with Olive Oil Trending?

So, why is coffee with olive oil suddenly gaining so much attention? Several factors contribute to this unusual trend.

Health Trends: The rise of diets like paleo and keto, which emphasize healthy fats, has played a role. People actively seek ways to incorporate more good fats into their daily routines.
Marketing Strategy: Starbucks’ introduction of the “Oleato” line also pays tribute to Italian culture, where taking a spoonful of olive oil in the morning is a long-standing practice.
Bulletproof Coffee Influence: The popularity of bulletproof coffee (coffee blended with fats like butter or MCT oil) has paved the way for coffee with olive oil. Both substitute carb-heavy meals, providing satiety, sustained energy, and enhanced mental focus.

However, it’s important to note potential drawbacks. Olive oil is calorie-dense, and both olive oil and coffee can cause digestive issues in some individuals. This detailed information ensures you’re fully informed and can make the best decision for your health.

Health Benefits of Coffee with Olive Oil

The primary reason coffee with olive oil is gaining interest is its potential health boost. Both olive oil and coffee have individual health benefits, which may enhance these effects when combined. This reassurance of health benefits is a significant draw for many health-conscious individuals.

Let’s start with olive oil:

Heart Health: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol and improve overall heart health.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Compounds like oleocanthal have anti-inflammatory effects in olive oil.
Antioxidants: Olive oil is packed with antioxidants that fight cell damage.
Digestive Health: It can lubricate the intestinal tract and reduce gastric acid production.
Skin and Hair Health: Olive oil contains vitamins E and K, essential for healthy skin and hair.
Bone Health: It may improve bone density.

And what about coffee?

Improved Alertness: Coffee is known to enhance alertness and cognitive performance.
Mood Enhancement: It may improve mood and reduce the risk of depression.
Antioxidants: Like olive oil, coffee is also a source of antioxidants.

What about the synergistic effects of coffee with olive oil? Some believe that combining these ingredients may lead to:

Enhanced Absorption: The healthy fats in olive oil could aid in absorbing fat-soluble vitamins found in coffee.
Boosted Metabolism: Combining caffeine and healthy fats may increase metabolic rate.
Increased Satiety: Olive oil may promote a feeling of fullness, helping with weight management.
Slowed Caffeine Absorption: The fat from the olive oil lines the stomach and slows the absorption, allowing the body to take in the caffeine at a more moderate pace, which gives drinkers longer-lasting energy and avoids an energy crash.
Brain Health: Olive oil plays a role in brain health as a component of the MIND diet.

What Does Coffee with Olive Oil Taste Like?

Here’s how to make your coffee with olive oil at home:

Brew your coffee: Start by brewing 8 ounces of black coffee using your favorite method and high-quality coffee beans.
Combine: Add one teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) per 8 ounces of coffee. A good-quality EVOO will have a more refined taste, giving your coffee a nutty sweetness. It’s essential to use extra virgin olive oil since it’s the only one containing the main phenolic compounds, hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein.
Blend or froth: For a velvety texture, blend the mixture in a blender for about 30 seconds. If you don’t have a blender, shake it vigorously in a sealed jar or use a handheld frother. Be cautious when blending hot liquids, as the steam can cause pressure to build up.
(Optional) Add creaminess: Add one tablespoon of grass-fed butter or ghee for an even creamier consistency.
Customize the flavor:
Sweeteners: Add natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors.
Spices: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for added warmth and aroma.

When choosing olive oil, choose a mild or medium-intensity EVOO to avoid overpowering the coffee. A lighter oil will blend more seamlessly with coffee.

This method works for different preparations of coffee with olive oil :

Hot coffee.
Iced coffee.
Latte or cappuccino.

Potential Downsides and Precautions

While coffee with olive oil presents potential benefits, it’s crucial to be aware of potential downsides and take necessary precautions. Let’s delve into these to ensure you’re fully informed and can make the best decision for your health.

Calorie Content: Just one tablespoon of olive oil contains approximately 120 calories. If you’re monitoring your calorie intake, factor this into your daily count.
Digestive Issues: Both coffee and olive oil can act as laxatives, potentially leading to diarrhea or stomach upset if consumed in excess.
Allergies: Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to olive oil. Symptoms can include itching or skin rashes.
Interaction with Medications: Olive oil has natural blood-thinning properties. The fats in olive oil can alter certain medications’ absorption rates. Consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort: The combination of olive oil and acidic coffee may cause heartburn or stomach upset, especially for sensitive stomachs.

To mitigate these downsides:

Consume in moderation.
Start with a small amount to assess your tolerance. Add no more than a tablespoon for at least a week and let your body adapt.
Listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly.
Consult with a healthcare professional for specific health concerns or dietary restrictions.

Alternatives and Add-Ins for Coffee

Here are some alternatives and add-ins for coffee, in case olive oil isn’t to your liking:

MCT oil, coconut oil, butter, or ghee can be used instead of olive oil to add fats to coffee. Adding any source of fat to coffee is nothing new.
Plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat milk offer a creamy texture and are suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Starbucks uses Oatly Barista Edition Oatmilk, but any oat milk is fine.
Spices such as cinnamon or cocoa can add flavor and health benefits. Cinnamon is a natural sweetener that may help manage blood glucose and promote cardiovascular wellness. Cocoa powder brings richness and antioxidants.
Extracts like vanilla or almond can transform your coffee into a gourmet drink.
Natural sweeteners such as honey or agave can balance robust flavors with sweetness. Meluka raw honey is an all-natural sweetener.

Bulletproof coffee, which typically includes butter or MCT oil, is a popular alternative for those seeking a carb-heavy meal substitute with satiety and sustained energy.

Expert Opinions

Here’s a presentation of expert opinions on coffee with olive oil, as drawn from the sources:

Expert opinions on the coffee with olive oil trend are mixed. Some endorse it, while others are more skeptical.

Some experts, such as the CEO of Olive Knowledge, recommend swapping milk for olive oil to gain extra fats and antioxidants. A registered dietitian noted that olive oil contains healthy fats that may lower cholesterol, protect against heart disease, reduce inflammation, and aid in weight loss.
Other experts are skeptical, with one nutritionist stating that people prefer eating healthy fats to consuming processed oils. Many nutritionists voiced concerns that people might drink oil in the mornings instead of eating a wholesome breakfast.
Regardless of viewpoint, experts emphasize the importance of using quality coffee beans and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). EVOO has a more refined taste, giving coffee a nutty sweetness.

Conclusion

In summary, coffee with olive oil presents a novel twist on a morning ritual, with potential benefits and drawbacks.

It may offer heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and sustained energy.
However, it also adds calories and may cause digestive issues for some.

Ultimately, whether or not to try coffee with olive oil depends on individual preferences and health goals. It is best to experiment with different types of coffee and ratios of coffee to olive oil.

Listen to your body, start with a small amount, and adjust your intake accordingly.

Now it’s your turn! Try the recipe and share your experience in the comments below.