Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Longevity: Our Family Story and the Research

I've valued extra virgin olive oil for years, not only for its place in nutrition research, but for the place it has always held in our family. In Greece, olive oil was part of the food we cooked, the meals we shared and the traditions passed from one generation to the next.

When I first wrote this article, my amazing YiaYia, Maria Giannakos, had turned 105. She went on to live to 112. Her story remains one of the most meaningful parts of our family's connection to Greek food and olive oil.

Maria's story: a tradition worth remembering

YiaYia loved the food and customs she grew up with. Olive oil was part of that life, and it is natural for us to associate its flavour with her and the family table.

In the original article, I pointed to her age as proof of olive oil's health benefits. Her longevity is remarkable, but one person's life cannot establish why they lived so long. I can honour her story and value the tradition without making that claim.

For our family, the meaning goes beyond a number. It is about remembering someone we loved and carrying forward the habits, flavours and generosity she shared.

What Mediterranean diet research adds

Family history and scientific evidence answer different questions. The revised 2018 PREDIMED report found fewer major cardiovascular events among older adults at high cardiovascular risk assigned to Mediterranean diets supplemented with EVOO or nuts than in the reduced-fat advice comparison group.

A 2025 systematic review identified 17 clinical studies examining virgin olive oil, including EVOO, and cardiovascular health. It reported favourable findings involving cardiometabolic biomarkers and cardiovascular outcomes, while calling for larger, multicentre studies.

This supports continued interest in olive oil within dietary patterns. It does not prove that olive oil alone extends life, guarantees cancer prevention or produces a particular outcome for everyone.

Read the revised PREDIMED report and 2025 cardiovascular review. Our olive oil research update explains more of the evidence.

A Mediterranean habit, not a shortcut

The most useful way to enjoy olive oil is as part of meals: vegetables, beans, whole grains, salads and the other foods that make Mediterranean eating a pattern.

A familiar ingredient can make those meals more satisfying. It does not need to be taken as a nightly shot or presented as a secret to a long life. We have removed the original unverified royal anecdote for that reason.

Explore our Mediterranean diet, healthy ageing and family guide for practical Greek meal ideas.

Greek olive oil from our family to your table

Ilias and Sons connects generations of Greek olive-oil craftsmanship with our business in Ottawa. Our Gourmet Organic Original Blend Greek EVOO offers a fruity, grassy profile with a milder peppery finish, while 7Thirty high-phenolic Greek EVOO brings bold early-harvest Koroneiki character.

For phenolic claims, ask for evidence connected with the harvest or lot you are considering. Our polyphenol testing guide explains what a report can establish. The studies above did not test these retail products.

An invitation to taste and share

I still welcome you to try our Greek extra virgin olive oil and decide for yourself which flavour belongs at your table. Good food is something to enjoy and share, not something that needs a guarantee about your lifespan.

Visit Where to Find Us for current local shopping options. Whether you are cooking a simple meal or gathering with family, I hope our olive oil becomes part of a tradition you enjoy making your own.