A study has suggested that swapping butter for olive oil on your bread could add years to your life. The research, conducted by Harvard Medical School, analysed data from American adults to determine the impact of their diet on life expectancy.
Published in the JAMA Medical Journal, the findings indicated that those who consumed more butter were more likely to die prematurely. The Times reports: “High intake of butter was associated with increased mortality, while higher plant-based oils intake was associated with lower mortality.”
The study also found that a daily increase of 10g in plant-based oils led to an 11% reduction in cancer risk. On the other hand, increased butter consumption was linked to a 12% rise in cancer risk.
While further research is needed to confirm the potential link between oil and butter consumption and cancer risk, the study underscores the significance of diet in long-term mortality.
Commenting on the study, Professor Tom Sanders from King’s College London said: “This is an important study that shows that people who choose to eat butter don’t live as long as those who choose to eat vegetable oils.”
Olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean Diet, has been hailed for its numerous health benefits by Harvard Health experts.
They’ve highlighted: “Many studies continue to confirm the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, which cuts the risk of heart disease and stroke.
“The diet’s nutritional benefits probably come from various sources, but the generous use of olive oil appears to be a key contributor.”
The praise doesn’t stop there, as they noted: “The health benefits of olive oil have been attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, observational studies have shown a link between lower risks of cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and even dementia in people who consume higher amounts of olive oil than those who use little or none.”
The British Heart Foundation also recognises olive oil’s virtues, offering practical advice on how to incorporate it into your diet: “Olive oil is often linked with good heart health due to its role in the Mediterranean diet and can contain substances that have been linked to health benefits.
“Instead of taking olive oil as a supplement think about adding it to meals, for example as a salad dressing. About 70g (21⁄2 oz) of fat a day is the maximum recommended for an adult.”
Experts like nutritionist Louise Pyne caution against indulging without heeding essential guidelines. Speaking to The Standard, Pyne advises: “Always choose organic cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil over varieties labelled refined, pure, or light”.
She goes on to stress that not all olive oils benefit health equally and underscores the importance of the oil’s aroma and storing it in a dark place to prevent sunlight-induced oxidation.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
