Lemon Olive Oil Shot: Worth It?

Two tablespoons of high-quality organic extra virgin olive oil. A squeeze of fresh organic lemon juice. Taken like a shot first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach.

No powders. No trends. No fancy gear. Just two ingredients with centuries of tradition and research behind them — and a long list of benefits when you use them right.

It’s not a cleanse. It’s not a detox. It’s a habit. One our founder, Ida, does every single morning.

Here’s why we do it — and what makes this little ritual actually worth doing.

First things first: what is it?

It’s exactly what it sounds like:

A lemon + olive oil shot is a small blend of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice, taken before anything else in the morning. It’s a functional, natural way to support your digestion, your skin, your energy, and your mood — but only if the ingredients are high quality, organic, and fresh.

This is key. Not all olive oil is created equal — and not all lemons are, either.

Why lemon?

Lemon juice is naturally rich in vitamin C, potassium, and enzymes that gently stimulate digestion and liver function. It’s alkalizing and helps hydrate and wake up the body in the most low-maintenance way.

But again — it has to be fresh. Bottled lemon juice doesn't offer the same enzyme activity. And ideally, it’s organic, since conventional citrus tends to be heavily sprayed. You’re drinking this straight — you want it clean.

Why olive oil?

This is where the magic really happens — if you’re using real extra virgin olive oil.

The key here is the polyphenol content. Polyphenols are antioxidant compounds found in high-quality olive oil that have been linked to benefits ranging from reduced inflammation to improved heart and brain function. They also protect the oil from oxidation and give it that slightly peppery, alive flavor that you can’t fake.

But here’s the problem: most store-bought olive oils are either low in polyphenols or totally stripped of them during processing. Many are refined, rancid, or blended with cheaper seed oils.

That’s why we only recommend using a high-polyphenol, cold-extracted, organic extra virgin olive oil.

Oolio has been lab-tested to contain 462 mg/kg of polyphenols — nearly double the level considered “excellent.” Most off-the-shelf oils hover between 100–200, and often don’t list the number at all.

This is the difference between a real, nourishing wellness ritual and just drinking oil for no reason.

So… why take it in the morning?

Taking the shot first thing in the morning — on an empty stomach — helps your body absorb the healthy fats and nutrients more efficiently. It supports:

• Digestion: Olive oil helps lubricate the GI tract and support bile flow. Lemon gently stimulates the liver and stomach lining.

• Skin clarity: The antioxidants and healthy fats work from the inside out, supporting your skin’s moisture barrier and glow.

• Energy + mental clarity: Polyphenols help reduce internal inflammation and support clearer brain function.

• Hormonal balance: Fats are essential for hormone production and regulation — especially the good ones.

• Consistency: The habit itself grounds your morning. It’s slow, it’s simple, and it signals to your body: we’re starting fresh.

“It’s how I start every day.” — Ida, Oolio Founder

For Ida, this practice is non-negotiable.

“I started taking a lemon and olive oil shot because I was dealing with hormonal imbalances, breakouts, and constant cravings — things I didn’t realize were tied to years of birth control. I started reading into the research, and it all clicked: high-polyphenol olive oil can help support digestion, reduce inflammation, and even regulate blood sugar. Lemon adds vitamin C and supports liver function — together, it just made sense.”

She says ”Now, it’s my non-negotiable morning ritual. I take it first thing — Oolio, fresh lemon - usually organic lemons from my garden or the farmers market and sometimes in a cute vintage glass to make it feel like a moment. And now most of my friends are on it too. Once you feel the difference, it sticks. And — not gonna lie — I also take it with my friends before a night out. It actually helps with hangovers since the healthy fats can slow alcohol absorption in the body and the lemon gives your liver a little support.”

She uses Oolio (of course) and squeezes fresh organic lemon straight into the glass. No overthinking. Just good olive oil, fresh citrus, and a pause before the day begins.

How to make your own:

It’s not complicated — but it does matter how you do it.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp of high-polyphenol extra virgin olive oil (cold-extracted and organic is best)

• Juice from half an organic lemon, freshly squeezed
  

• A small glass or vintage shot glass (if you’re feeling fancy)

Mix, sip, and follow it with water if you’d like. Or don’t. Either way, you’re giving your body something real.

Final word?

This isn’t about a “miracle hack.” It’s about the power of two simple, organic ingredients that have been trusted for centuries — and still work.

If you’re going to do it, do it right. Choose olive oil that actually has nutritional integrity. Choose lemons that were grown without pesticides. And choose it because it makes you feel good — not because TikTok told you to.

It’s simple. It’s smart. And when it becomes a habit, it’s the kind of thing your body thanks you for — quietly, over time.