Taking a small “shot” of olive oil has become a popular wellness trend. You may have seen people recommending a spoonful of extra-virgin olive oil first thing in the morning, claiming it can support digestion, heart health, detoxification, or even help with weight loss.
But what actually happens when you drink olive oil by itself?
Olive Oil Is Mostly Healthy Fat
Extra-virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fat and contains naturally occurring antioxidant compounds. Replacing foods high in saturated fats with unsaturated fats can be part of a heart-healthy eating pattern.
However, drinking a shot doesn’t make olive oil magically healthier than using it as part of a meal.
A tablespoon contains roughly 120 calories, so several spoonfuls can add significant calories to your daily intake.
It May Help You Feel Full
Because fat takes longer to digest than carbohydrates, consuming olive oil may contribute to feelings of fullness.
That doesn’t mean taking a shot of oil automatically causes weight loss. If the extra calories are simply added to your normal diet, it could actually make it harder to maintain a calorie deficit.
The bigger picture—your overall eating pattern and calorie intake—matters much more.
What About Digestion?
Some people report that olive oil helps them feel more comfortable after eating or supports regular bowel movements. However, individual responses vary, and there isn’t strong evidence that everyone benefits from drinking a daily shot.
If you experience digestive discomfort after consuming a large amount of oil, there’s little reason to force yourself to continue the habit.
It Isn’t a “Detox”
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding olive oil shots is that they somehow cleanse or detox the body.
Your liver and kidneys already perform the body’s major detoxification functions. Drinking olive oil doesn’t flush toxins from your system or replace a healthy diet.
A Better Way to Use Olive Oil
Rather than treating olive oil like a supplement, consider incorporating it into balanced meals.
You can drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over vegetables, use it in salad dressings, or include it in cooking where appropriate. This makes it easier to enjoy its flavor and nutritional benefits without turning a single ingredient into a supposed miracle remedy.
The Bottom Line
A shot of olive oil isn’t a magic health treatment. Olive oil can be a nutritious source of unsaturated fat, but the amount you consume still matters.
If you enjoy extra-virgin olive oil, there’s no need to drink it straight to get its benefits. Using a reasonable amount as part of an overall balanced diet is a much more practical approach.
