Mediterranean chef Suzy Karadsheh is making waves with her claim that extra virgin olive oil is a 'liquid gold' in your pantry, offering heart health and weight-loss benefits. In a world of complicated diets and trending weight-loss drugs, Karadsheh's emphasis on a simple swap is intriguing. Replacing processed or saturated fats with extra virgin olive oil is her recommended approach, and she believes this upgrade can significantly enhance your diet. With a background in Mediterranean cooking and a focus on vegetables, legumes, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats, Karadsheh's expertise is grounded in tradition and wellness. Her cookbooks and curated pantry staples showcase her commitment to a balanced and nourishing lifestyle.
Karadsheh's emphasis on olive oil is not without merit. Rich in polyphenols and beneficial compounds, olive oil can support overall health and promote a sense of fullness. Some wellness enthusiasts even liken olive oil to a 'natural GLP-1', referencing glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that regulates blood sugar, slows digestion, and promotes satiety. This comparison is intriguing, as GLP-1 is also targeted by popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
However, experts caution against overstating the connection between olive oil and GLP-1. Dr. John La Puma, a board-certified internist and chef, points out that the GLP-1 release from olive oil is short-lived, lasting only minutes to hours, whereas prescription drugs target a sustained effect over days. Joseph Zucchi, a physician assistant, agrees, emphasizing that while olive oil can stimulate GLP-1 release, the body's natural GLP-1 is extremely short-lived, circulating for only one to two minutes before being broken down.
Despite the caveats, Karadsheh's message of upgrading your diet with olive oil is compelling. She advocates for a balanced approach, where healthy swaps and a focus on wholesome ingredients are key. Her personal use of olive oil, including a daily shot, highlights her belief in its benefits. By emphasizing the importance of replacement over elimination, Karadsheh encourages a sustainable and enjoyable approach to healthy eating, where a little extra olive oil can go a long way in enhancing your meals and overall well-being.
