Excess oleic acid, found in olive oil, contributes to the growth of fat cells

Study: Oleic Acid Found in Olive Oil May Contribute to Obesity

Source: University of Oklahoma – Cell Reports

A recent study published in the journal Cell Reports revealed that a diet rich in oleic acid — a monounsaturated fatty acid abundant in olive oil — may have a direct effect on increasing the number of fat cells in the body, thereby boosting the likelihood of obesity more than other types of fat.

Oleic Acid and Obesity

The study explained that oleic acid stimulates the production of fat cells through:

• Boosting the activity of a signaling protein known as AKT2
• Reducing the activity of a regulatory protein known as LXR

These changes lead to accelerated growth of the precursor cells that later transform into mature fat cells.

"We were investigating whether simply overeating fat causes obesity, or whether the type of fatty acid plays a specific role in affecting the cells."
— Dr. Michael Rudolph, Assistant Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Oklahoma

Experimental Results in Mice

The researchers conducted experiments on mice that consumed diets rich in different fatty acids, such as:

• Coconut oil
• Peanut oil
• Milk
• Lard
• Soybean oil

But the surprise was that oleic acid alone was the one that caused a significant increase in the proliferation of fat precursor cells.

How Does Oleic Acid Work?

Dr. Rudolph likened fat cells to "an army of soldiers," saying:

"When you consume oleic acid, the number of soldiers (fat cells) increases, which raises the body's capacity to store excess nutrients. And if the amount of these nutrients exceeds the storage capacity, obesity occurs, which may later lead to heart disease or diabetes."

Should We Stop Consuming Olive Oil?

Despite the importance of the study, the researchers stressed that the lesson lies in moderation. The human diet usually contains a mixture of fats that is difficult to separate, but there is a concerning observation regarding the high levels of oleic acid in processed foods and fast food.

"Balanced levels of oleic acid may be beneficial, but high and sustained levels may harm health, especially for those predisposed to heart disease."
— Dr. Rudolph

Conclusion

Despite olive oil's fame for its health benefits, excessive consumption of oleic acid may have a negative effect on increasing fat cells, which highlights the importance of diversifying fat sources and not relying excessively on one type, even if it is healthy.

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