Who Should Not Take Virgin Olive Oil?

December 2, 2025 •

4 min read

Although virgin olive oil is celebrated for its health benefits, not everyone can safely consume it, with some individuals experiencing significant side effects like digestive upset or allergic reactions. It is crucial to understand who should not take virgin olive oil to prevent potential health complications and adverse medication interactions.

Quick Summary

This guide details specific health conditions and medication types that require limiting or avoiding virgin olive oil. It covers risks for sensitive digestive systems, certain medications, and other health concerns.

Key Points

Blood Pressure Medication: Individuals on blood pressure medication should be cautious, as olive oil can have a compounding blood pressure-lowering effect.
Diabetes Medications: Virgin olive oil may cause blood sugar to drop too low when combined with diabetes medications like insulin.
Gallbladder Conditions: Excessive consumption can trigger symptoms in those with gallbladder issues or gallstones.
Sensitive Digestive Systems: High intake can cause diarrhea, bloating, and other discomfort, especially for individuals with sensitive stomachs.
Allergy Sufferers: While rare, allergies to the proteins in olives can occur, causing skin or gastrointestinal reactions.
High Caloric Intake: Overconsuming olive oil can contribute to weight gain due to its high calorie density.
Infants and Pregnant Women: These populations should use virgin olive oil with caution and only in food amounts, not medicinal quantities, after consulting a doctor.

Who Should Be Cautious with Virgin Olive Oil?

Virgin olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, lauded for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. However, its potent compounds and high caloric density mean it is not universally beneficial. Certain health conditions, medical treatments, and sensitivities necessitate caution or avoidance. A crucial step toward safe consumption is understanding these potential risks and speaking with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

Digestive System Sensitivity

While olive oil is known to aid digestion for some, particularly with mild constipation, excessive intake can trigger adverse digestive reactions in sensitive individuals.

People with Gallbladder Issues

For those with existing gallbladder conditions, especially gallstones, high-fat foods including olive oil can trigger painful attacks. While moderate consumption might be safe, excessive amounts can stimulate bile production and lead to discomfort. It is best to follow a doctor's guidance regarding fat intake.

Individuals with Acute Digestive Sensitivity

Some people, particularly when consuming large quantities or on an empty stomach, may experience gastrointestinal discomfort. Common side effects include:

Diarrhea, as olive oil has natural laxative properties.
Stomach cramps and bloating.
Nausea.

Medication Interactions and Blood Health

Virgin olive oil can affect how the body processes certain medications, potentially leading to dangerous health issues.

For People on Blood Pressure Medication

Olive oil has a natural blood pressure-lowering effect. When combined with prescription antihypertensive drugs, this can cause blood pressure to drop too low, resulting in dizziness, lightheadedness, and other complications. Close monitoring of blood pressure is necessary.

For Those Taking Diabetes Medication

Similarly, olive oil can help lower blood sugar levels. Individuals on diabetes medications, such as insulin or glimepiride, must use caution, as taking both could cause blood sugar levels to fall dangerously low. Diabetics should consult their doctor to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust medication dosage if necessary.

For Individuals on Blood-Thinning Medication

Olive oil can slow blood clotting. For those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin, this could increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. A moderate interaction is possible, so it is important to discuss your olive oil intake with a healthcare provider.

Allergic Reactions

Allergies to olive fruit or olive oil are rare but possible. The proteins in the fruit are the primary allergen, but trace amounts can be found in virgin olive oil, especially unfiltered varieties. Symptoms may include:

Skin irritation, rashes, or hives
Nasal congestion or sneezing, often linked to olive pollen but possible with food allergy
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea

Caloric Intake and Weight Management

Despite its 'healthy fat' label, olive oil is calorie-dense, with around 120 calories per tablespoon. Overindulgence can lead to unintended weight gain and associated metabolic risks. Moderation is key to reaping the benefits without increasing your waistline.

Special Populations and Circumstances

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Individuals

There is currently insufficient reliable information regarding the safety of using olive oil in medicinal amounts during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is recommended to stick to normal food amounts and avoid higher, supplemental doses.

Infants and Young Children (Topical vs. Oral)

For infants, virgin olive oil should not be used regularly for skin massage, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin or eczema. The oleic acid can break down the skin's natural barrier. While often added to food during weaning (around 6 months), portion sizes must be controlled to prevent excessive calorie intake or digestive upset. Always consult a pediatrician before giving olive oil to a baby.

Virgin Olive Oil Risks vs. Benefits: A Comparison


Aspect	Generally Perceived Benefits	Potential Risks for Specific Groups
Heart Health	High in monounsaturated fats, lowers LDL cholesterol.	Potential for excessively lowered blood pressure in those on medication.
Blood Sugar	Improves blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.	Risk of hypoglycemia (blood sugar dropping too low) for those on diabetes medication.
Digestion	Can help relieve mild constipation and aid nutrient absorption.	Can cause diarrhea, bloating, and discomfort in excess amounts or for sensitive individuals.
Weight	Moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet are not associated with weight gain.	Excessive intake, due to high caloric density, can contribute to weight gain.
Antioxidants	Rich in antioxidants, which fight inflammation.	Allergic reactions, though rare, can occur from proteins in the olive fruit.

Conclusion: Moderation and Professional Guidance are Key

For many, virgin olive oil remains a healthy dietary choice. However, as this article has shown, certain individuals must approach its consumption with caution. Key concerns revolve around interactions with specific medications for blood pressure and diabetes, potential digestive issues with excessive intake, and rare but serious allergic reactions. Always consume virgin olive oil in moderation and, if you have any pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor or a registered dietitian. For more detailed information on specific drug interactions, refer to resources like WebMD and RxList.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but you should monitor your blood pressure closely. Since olive oil has a blood pressure-lowering effect, combining it with medication could cause your blood pressure to drop too low. It is best to consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Overconsumption of olive oil can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and bloating. Due to its mild laxative effect, moderation is key for those with sensitive digestive systems.

No, an allergy to the olive fruit or olive oil is incredibly rare. Allergies are more commonly associated with olive tree pollen. However, for those who are sensitive to the proteins in olives, consumption can lead to reactions.

For infants with dry skin or eczema, virgin olive oil's high oleic acid content can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, potentially worsening the condition rather than moisturizing it. It's recommended to consult a pediatrician for topical use on infants.

Virgin olive oil may lower blood sugar levels. When taken with diabetes medications that also lower blood sugar, it can cause levels to drop excessively, leading to hypoglycemia. Close monitoring by a doctor is advised.

Like any fat, virgin olive oil is high in calories. While healthy, consuming excessive amounts can contribute to weight gain if not balanced with overall caloric intake. A few tablespoons daily is typically recommended.

Individuals undergoing surgery should stop using olive oil approximately two weeks prior. This is because olive oil can affect blood sugar control during and after the procedure.

The safety of using olive oil in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not reliably established. It is best for these groups to stick to normal food amounts and consult a doctor.