Dr. Peter Rogers and I sat down to discuss the recent “Great Olive Oil Debate” between Rip Esselstyn and Dr. Garth Davis – a respectful, thoughtful exchange that’s sparked some buzz in the plant-based world.
So what’s the debate about?
Rip maintains his father Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn’s oil-free stance, while Garth Davis now promotes modest olive oil use – despite once being strongly anti-oil himself. Both men care deeply about health and the science. But they came to very different conclusions.
Peter and I watched the full debate and give our take – not just on who “won,” but what the science really says. Our analysis highlights some concerning facts:
* The key studies Dr. Davis cites, like PREDIMED, are riddled with methodological issues and industry influence
* Dr. David Katz, whom Davis quotes frequently, has received major funding from olive oil industry groups
* When you examine the PREDIMED data, all diet groups – including the olive oil group – still experienced heart attacks, strokes, and deaths
* Dr. Rogers breaks down the biochemistry of how all oils, including olive oil, impair blood flow, raise triglycerides, and harm arteries
* And we share findings on contaminants like lead and phthalates found in many commercial olive oils
Why this matters:
The most dramatic disease reversal results – Esselstyn, McDougall, Ornish, Kempner – have consistently come from very low-fat, oil-free diets. These aren’t mild improvements; we’re talking about people sent home to die by cardiologists who are still thriving decades later.
While Dr. Davis makes thoughtful points about helping people take small steps, Peter and I explain why we remain firmly in the oil-free camp – for those serious about reversing disease and achieving optimal health.
I’d love to hear your take: Do you use olive oil? Has your view changed after hearing this debate?
Original Debate Video with Rip and Garth:
Washington Post article with Frank Hu MD of Harvard:
https://archive.is/ulu5N
Dr. Katz’ financial ties to the Olive Oil industry:
