Can I eat olive oil with ulcerative colitis?
Olive oil, especially extra-virgin olive oil, is rich in monounsaturated fat and polyphenols like hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein, which in lab and animal studies suppress inflammatory signaling pathways (NF-κB, pro-inflammatory cytokines) and support gut-barrier and microbiota health. A small human trial found that extra-virgin olive oil intake reduced inflammatory markers and improved GI symptoms in ulcerative colitis patients, though it's still fat, so very large amounts can add to overall fat load like any oil. Mediterranean-diet patterns built around olive oil are associated with lower inflammatory markers in observational IBD research.
During a flare
As with any fat, using olive oil in moderate cooking amounts is generally reasonable, but very heavy or fried use of any oil can add to fat-related flare symptoms.
In remission
Olive oil is commonly recommended as a preferred cooking fat in Mediterranean-style eating patterns explored for IBD, though actual adherence to Mediterranean-diet olive oil intake has been found to be low even among IBD patients who want to eat better.
Ways to make it gentler
- Use as a finishing oil or in moderate cooking amounts rather than deep-frying
- Choose extra-virgin varieties for higher polyphenol content
Sources
- Effects of Olive Oil and Its Components on Intestinal Inflammation and Inflammatory Bowel Disease — PMC (National Library of Medicine)
- Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Dietary Attitudes in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease — PMC (National Library of Medicine)
Last checked 2026-08-12
Related foods
