Olive oil protects from ulcerative colitis

Eating more olive oil could help prevent ulcerative colitis, according to a new study presented at the Digestive Disease Week conference. People with a diet rich in oleic acid, which is present in olive oil, are far less likely to develop ulcerative colitis. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid found in olive oil, peanut oil and grapeseed oil, as well as in butter.

The researchers studied more than 25,000 people aged 40-65. They found that those with the highest intake of oleic acid had a 90 per cent lower risk of developing the disease. "We estimate that around half of the cases of ulcerative colitis could be prevented if larger amounts of oleic acid were consumed. Two-to-three tablespoons of olive oil per day would have a protective effect," said researchers.

Bonnie - another amazing endorsement for this Mediterranean diet staple.