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Evidence-Based Supplement Research
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Big effect

Three tablespoons of olive oil daily tied to 66% fewer neonatal complications — but the finding comes from a single trial in women with gestational diabetes

This is one of the first rigorous tests of olive oil in gestational diabetes, and while the 66% reduction in neonatal complications is striking, the effect was measured in a specific clinical population and several other outcomes (like weight gain) didn't budge, so the benefit may be narrower than it appears.

In a randomized trial of 190 women with gestational diabetes, those who added three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to their daily diet had significantly fewer babies with multiple complications — the risk was cut by about two-thirds. However, the study also tracked measures like maternal weight gain and BMI, which showed no difference, suggesting the olive oil's benefit was focused on certain complications rather than a general improvement. Because this is among the first studies on this pairing, the results need replication before they can be broadly applied.

Where this fits in the evidence

This is among the first studies we've indexed on Olive Oil for Reduced Neonatal Complication — treat it as an early signal until more research accumulates.

The study

OLIDIAG Study: Extra Virgin Olive Oil Supplementation in the Diet of Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus-A Randomized Clinical Trial.

  • Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
  • n = 190
  • 2026-03-31
  • Nutrients
More on Olive OilMore on Reduced Neonatal Complication

This is a plain-language summary of a research finding, not medical advice. Pillser surfaces research signals to help you decide what's worth investigating — always consult a qualified professional before changing what you take.

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