Nick NorwitzMD PhD, Oxford-Harvard | Metabolic Health Educator | “Stay Curious”

Why Are People Doing Olive Oil Shots?

16 Oct 2026 · 1 min

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1:26

In this video, Nick Norwitz explains why some people consume extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as a “shot.” He clarifies that EVOO is more than just fat—it contains dozens of phenolic compounds that have been studied for cardiovascular, metabolic, and neuroprotective benefits. He highlights hydroxytyrosol, noting its ability to prevent tau‑protein aggregation linked to Alzheimer’s disease and to boost nitric‑oxide bioavailability, which can lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Norwitz then outlines three practical criteria for selecting high‑quality EVOO: (1) packaging that protects from light (dark glass or metal), (2) a recent harvest/press date (ideally within the past 18 months), and (3) a taste test that reveals a throat‑sting sensation from oleocanthal, a marker of polyphenol richness. He acknowledges that drinking EVOO straight isn’t magical, but he personally enjoys it as a “medicine” when taken this way.

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Why are people taking shots of extra virgin olive oil? Well, surprisingly, this one isn't just wellness woo-woo, provided you do it right. First, understand that extra virgin olive oil isn't simply fat. It contains dozens of phenolic compounds, including ones that have been studied for their cardiovascular and metabolic benefits. Let me just give you an example. The polyphenol hydroxytyrosol. It's been shown to prevent the aggregation of tau proteins that drive Alzheimer's disease and increases the bioavailability of nitric oxide, which is a hormone made by your blood vessels which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow. But not all olive oil is created equal. So if you're buying extra virgin olive oil, here are 3 things to look for. 1, get a dark glass or metal bottle like this that protects it from light. 2, a recent harvest or press date, ideally within the last 18 months. And 3, this is the fun one, a taste test. A robust polyphenol-rich olive oil should give you a kick right in the back of your throat, which comes from a molecule called oleocanthal, Olea, which is Latin for olive, and canth, meaning thorn or sting. This is a compound found in good olive oil, and it should make you cough. So should you start taking olive oil shots? Well, you can, but there's nothing magical about drinking it straight. Personally, I prefer my medicine like this.