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For thousands of years, Mediterranean cultures have treasured olive oil—not just as a culinary staple, but also as a symbol of health and longevity. Ancient Greek physicians like Hippocrates praised it for its healing powers.

Today, modern research is catching up, revealing that olive oil—especially the extra virgin kind—may play an important role in protecting your brain from decline well into old age. So what exactly makes this golden liquid so special, and how can it help you stay mentally sharp?Protects the BrainRegularly eating olive oil has been linked to better brain function and a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly in older adults. The benefits are largely due to olive oil’s high content of polyphenols—natural compounds that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, two key drivers of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Oxidative stress can damage neurons and disrupt communication between them, while inflammation can speed up the loss of neurons and worsen memory and movement problems.