Nutritionists and medical researchers from the Chen Zengxi School of Public Health at Harvard University analyzed data from nearly 100000 individuals in two independent health databases and found that those who consumed at least 7 grams of olive oil per day had a lower risk of developing dementia. The relevant paper was published in the latest issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, Open Network. Previous studies have shown that following a Mediterranean diet is beneficial for the health of most people. This diet recommends consuming beans, vegetables, nuts, fish, dairy products, and olive oil. To learn more about the potential health benefits of regularly consuming olive oil, scientists analyzed data from over 60000 female and over 31000 male patients. Both databases contain historical information tracked for up to 30 years, which also includes data on causes of death. Among the 92383 patients listed in these two databases, 4751 died from dementia related causes. When comparing dietary information, researchers found that people who consume at least half a teaspoon of olive oil (about 7 grams) per day have a 28% lower likelihood of dying from dementia related diseases. The research team also pointed out that many people in the database who eat olive oil every day use olive oil instead of butter, mayonnaise and other vegetable oils in cooking and condiments, so they rarely eat mayonnaise and other foods that affect the incidence rate of dementia. Researchers emphasize that following a Mediterranean diet, especially by consistently consuming olive oil, may suppress inflammation caused by other factors, thereby reducing the risk of developing dementia. (Lai Xin She)