The Unexpected Laxative Effect
One of the most widely reported side effects of Oleato coffee is its powerful laxative effect. The cause is a "one-two punch" of ingredients: coffee, a known stimulant for the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and olive oil, a lubricant that can help soften stool and promote bowel movements. This combination can dramatically increase gut motility, leading to increased urgency and frequency of bowel movements. For people with sensitive stomachs, this effect can be particularly pronounced and uncomfortable, leading to unpleasant surprises. Some individuals have taken to social media to describe the combination as a "legit laxative". The effects are often intensified when the drink is consumed on an empty stomach, as the oils and caffeine hit the digestive system more quickly and without other foods to slow absorption.
Why the Combination is a Digestive Disruptor
The normal digestive process is a complex, regulated system. When you introduce a strong stimulant like caffeine, your gut muscles begin to contract more frequently. Simultaneously, the olive oil acts as a powerful lubricant within the colon. When these two properties are combined in a single beverage, they can overwhelm the GI system's natural rhythm. For some, the result is a swift, and often painful, trip to the restroom marked by cramping and diarrhea. Unlike taking an olive oil supplement with food, where fat digestion is slowed by the presence of other nutrients, consuming it rapidly in a beverage can accelerate its transit through the system.
Significant Caloric Impact
Another major consideration for anyone contemplating the Oleato trend is the significant increase in caloric intake. Olive oil, a healthy fat in moderation, is also extremely calorie-dense. Just one tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil adds about 120 calories to a drink. Many Oleato beverages contain a single-serve infusion, which can dramatically boost the overall calorie count. A grande Oleato Cold Brew, for example, contained 380 calories and a substantial 34 grams of total fat. This is more calories than many people consume in a typical breakfast. For those tracking their caloric intake for weight management, regularly consuming these high-calorie beverages could counteract their health goals.
Nutritional Comparison and Context
While olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, its inclusion transforms a relatively low-calorie coffee drink into a calorically significant one. For context, a regular black coffee has virtually zero calories. Adding a small amount of low-fat milk adds a minimal number of calories, while an Oleato drink can easily add several hundred. This shift in nutritional profile is important to recognize, as it moves the beverage from a daily staple to an indulgent treat. The argument that it provides "healthy fats" must be weighed against the total caloric load.
Other Reported Discomforts and Issues
Beyond the primary laxative and caloric concerns, consumers have reported a variety of other side effects and sensory experiences.
- Nausea and Lack of Appetite: Some drinkers reported feeling sick to their stomach after consuming an Oleato beverage, leading to a complete loss of appetite for the rest of the day.
- Acid Reflux: The addition of a fatty oil to an acidic beverage like coffee can exacerbate symptoms of acid reflux in susceptible individuals.
- Unusual Taste and Texture: Not everyone enjoyed the combination. Some customers found the taste and mouthfeel to be unusual or unpleasant, with the visible olive oil creating an unappealing sheen.
- Stomach Pain: In addition to the cramping associated with increased bowel activity, some individuals reported a general, shooting stomach pain after trying the drink.
Oleato vs. Other High-Fat Coffees
When considering Oleato, it's helpful to compare it with other high-fat coffee trends, like Bulletproof coffee, which gained popularity in the keto community.
| Feature | Oleato (Olive Oil Coffee) | Bulletproof (Butter/MCT Coffee) | Regular Coffee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Fat Type | Monounsaturated (from olive oil) | Saturated (from butter and MCT oil) | None |
| Average Calories | 120-380+ (depending on size) | 200-250+ | Minimal (black coffee) |
| Satiety Impact | Moderate | Very High | Low |
| Digestive Impact | Significant laxative effect potential | Potential for GI issues if too much fat | Stimulates bowels, less aggressive |
| Cholesterol Impact | Can be neutral to positive (heart-healthy fats) | Controversial, may raise LDL in some | Neutral |
| Antioxidants | Yes (from both coffee and olive oil) | Yes (from coffee) | Yes (from coffee) |
Conclusion
The side effects of Oleato coffee are primarily centered on its strong gastrointestinal impact and high-calorie density. While the healthy fats in olive oil offer benefits, their combination with coffee creates a potent laxative effect for many, especially those with pre-existing digestive sensitivities. The significant caloric addition also means it is not a low-calorie beverage, which is an important consideration for those managing their weight. While not inherently dangerous for most, individuals should approach the trend with caution and awareness of their own body's tolerance. For those interested in adding healthy fats to their diet, incorporating olive oil into solid foods is a safer and more manageable option than mixing it into your morning coffee. Acknowledging that the Starbucks Oleato line has been reportedly discontinued in most US stores since late 2024 is also relevant for consumers.
For more detailed information, read this article on Health.com. What to know about Starbucks' Oleato drinks
