Bone Health. From the Inside Out: How EVOO Supports Bone Strength

It Has Been Shown That...

regular consumption of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), particularly when high in polyphenols, may help protect against bone loss and improve markers of bone formation. EVOO has been associated with stronger bones, better calcium absorption, and reduced risk of osteoporosis—especially in older adults and postmenopausal women.

What It Means for You

Your bones are living tissue—they’re constantly being built up and broken down. As we age, or if we’re deficient in key nutrients, that breakdown can outpace the rebuilding process. EVOO helps tip the balance back in your favor.

The compounds in EVOO don’t just help your heart and brain—they also reach your bones, where they can reduce inflammation, support calcium metabolism, and encourage the production of new bone cells. It’s an easy, natural way to care for your foundation from the inside out.

What Clinical Science Says

EVOO supports bone health through multiple biological mechanisms:

• Stimulates Osteoblast Activity (Bone-Building Cells)
  Hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein promote the differentiation and function of osteoblasts, which are responsible for forming new bone.
• Inhibits Osteoclast Activity (Bone-Resorbing Cells)
  These same polyphenols have been shown to reduce the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone tissue.
• Improves Calcium Utilization
  EVOO may enhance calcium uptake and reduce urinary calcium loss—key to preserving bone density.
• Reduces Inflammatory Bone Loss
  Chronic inflammation accelerates bone degradation. EVOO reduces systemic and local inflammation that contributes to age-related bone loss.
• Mimics Actions of Bone-Protective Medications
• Hydroxytyrosol: Comparable to bisphosphonates in promoting bone formation.
• Oleuropein: Acts like RANKL inhibitors (e.g., denosumab) by limiting osteoclast development.

Clinical Evidence

• García-Gavilán et al., 2018
  In a randomized controlled trial, participants who consumed EVOO daily showed improvements in markers of bone formation, including osteocalcin and P1NP.
  Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 103(8), 3007–3015.
  [DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-02293]
• Fernández-Real et al., 2012
  A Mediterranean diet enriched with EVOO was associated with significantly higher levels of osteocalcin—a marker of bone growth—in older men.
  JCEM, 97(10), 3792–3799.
  [DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-2221]
• Puel et al., 2004
  Demonstrated in animal studies that phenolic compounds in EVOO prevented bone loss in ovariectomized rats—a model for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
  Clinical Nutrition, 23(4), 1004–1011.
• Grosso et al., 2015
  Reviewed observational studies showing that olive oil consumption is positively associated with bone density and lower fracture risk.
  International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 66(6), 649–658.

Try This at Home

Strong bones are built over time—EVOO can help you get there naturally:

• Use EVOO to sauté leafy greens like kale, collards, and spinach—great sources of calcium and magnesium.
• Top roasted carrots or sweet potatoes with EVOO and a pinch of sea salt for a mineral-rich snack.
• Pair with vitamin D–rich foods like salmon, sardines, or fortified eggs for optimal bone support.

Other Helpful Habits

Build strong bones with habits that support bone density and reduce breakdown:

• Do weight-bearing and resistance exercises. Walking, lifting light weights, or yoga can signal your bones to grow stronger.
• Get adequate calcium and vitamin D. Pair EVOO with food sources (rather than supplements) for better bioavailability.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. Both increase bone loss. EVOO supports a gentler balance.
• Add fermented foods like kefir or yogurt. EVOO can improve fat-soluble vitamin absorption and gut health, both of which are linked to better bone metabolism.