Can olive oil’s main fat increase your risk of obesity?

By Namita S Kalla| September 8, 2025 | Image: Canva

What is oleic acid?

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Oleic acid, the main fat in olive oil,  can grow new fat cells, which may  result in weight gain. Therefore, this  oil is healthy in moderation

Role of oleic acid

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Oleic acid doesn’t just expand fat  cells—it actually signals your body  to make more of them

Protein power

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It increases AKT2, which grows fat cells, and reduces LXR, a protein that normally limits fat buildup

Growing fat cells

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More fat cells mean more storage capacity—your body becomes better at holding onto excess calories as fat

The obesity connection

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When fat cells overflow and nutrients exceed demand, it can increase obesity risk and related health conditions

Unique fat effect

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Unlike fats in coconut oil or lard, oleic acid unusually promotes creation of brand-new fat cells

Modern diet concerns

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Many processed and fast foods are rich in oleic acid. They boost your daily intake without realising it

Importance of balance

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Nutritionists advise mixing fat  sources; too much oleic acid over  time may not be ideal alone

Mix it up

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Balance olive oil with fats from  fish, seeds, nuts, and plants for  a better fat profile

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