How Olive Oil Became My Secret Weapon for Keeping Off 120 Pounds

Losing 120 pounds was no easy feat, but keeping it off? That’s a whole different beast. After all the sweat, discipline, and maybe a few tearful moments of saying no to the cake, I realized that maintenance is its own challenge. But just when things started to feel like a struggle, I found a surprising ally: olive oil. Yep, that golden elixir of the Mediterranean diet was my weight-management MVP. Let’s talk about why.

The Weight Loss Battle Isn’t Over After You Lose It

If you’ve been on a significant weight loss journey, you know the most challenging part isn’t necessarily dropping the pounds—it’s making sure they don’t sneak back in like an ex who “just wants to talk.” As my body adjusted to its new size, my appetite seemed to stage a rebellion. I started digging into natural ways to curb hunger and keep my metabolism happy.

Enter extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). I’d heard whispers about its health benefits, but what really caught my attention was its ability to help regulate appetite, blood sugar, and digestion—some of the same effects as the weight-loss drug Ozempic. Intrigued, I decided to give it a shot.

How Olive Oil Works Like a Natural Ozempic

While olive oil isn’t a pharmaceutical drug, its components do some pretty incredible things:

• Boosts GLP-1: This hormone helps control appetite, just like Ozempic.
• Slows digestion: Meaning you feel fuller for longer, reducing cravings.
• Enhances insulin sensitivity: Helps stabilize blood sugar, preventing energy crashes.
• Suppresses hunger hormones: Oleic acid in olive oil converts into OEA, which signals satiety to the brain.
• Supports fat burning: The monounsaturated fats encourage your body to use fat as fuel.

So basically, it’s a hunger-taming, fat-burning powerhouse in a bottle. Who knew?

How I Use Olive Oil for Weight Maintenance

Knowing its benefits is one thing, but incorporating it into daily life was key for me. Here’s what worked:

1. Morning Olive Oil Shot

I start my day with one tablespoon of EVOO on an empty stomach. At first, I wasn’t sure about drinking oil straight, but I quickly got used to it (a squeeze of lemon helps!). It curbs my morning hunger and helps me eat more mindfully throughout the day.

2. Pre-Meal Oil Trick

Before big meals, I take another tablespoon. This slows digestion and prevents blood sugar spikes, meaning I feel full faster and don’t overeat. It’s a game-changer, especially when portion control is tough at social gatherings.

3. Olive Oil in Coffee (Yes, Really)

Move over, bulletproof coffee! I blend a tablespoon of EVOO into my morning coffee. The healthy fats keep me full, promote ketone production, and give me sustained energy. Plus, it makes the coffee super smooth and creamy.

4. Drizzling Over Fiber-Rich Foods

Pairing EVOO with fiber-packed foods (like veggies and whole grains) enhances satiety. I love tossing it on roasted Brussels sprouts or drizzling it over quinoa bowls.

Choosing the Right Olive Oil Matters

Not all olive oil is created equal. To get the real benefits, I stick to high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) that’s:

✅ Cold-pressed and unfiltered – Retains the most nutrients. ✅ High in polyphenols – These compounds are key for the metabolic benefits. ✅ From a trusted source – Avoid cheap blends mixed with vegetable oils.

Some of my go-to brands include:

• California Olive Ranch
• Cobram Estate
• Lucini
• Kirkland Signature Organic EVOO (Costco)
• Partanna

Why This Works for Me

I won’t claim olive oil is a miracle cure, but it has made my weight maintenance journey much less stressful. It helps me feel full, stabilizes my energy, and supports my metabolism—without counting calories like a math professor. Plus, it’s delicious!

If you’re looking for a natural, sustainable way to lose weight, consider trying EVOO. Your body (and taste buds) might just thank you!