Extra virgin olive oil has long been a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, known for supporting heart and metabolic health. Now, new research suggests it may also help protect the brain. Scientists have found that its benefits could extend beyond the body to the mind, working through the gut microbiome to support cognitive function. A study led by researchers from the Human Nutrition Unit at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), the Pere Virgili Health Research Institute (IISPV) and CIBERobn points to a meaningful link between extra virgin olive oil, gut bacteria, and brain health. Study explores olive oil, gut microbiome, and brain health "This is the first prospective study in humans to specifically analyze the role of olive oil in the interaction between gut microbiota and cognitive function," explains Jiaqi Ni, first author of the article and researcher at the URV's Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology.…