Based on NIH | Does olive oil interfere with aspirin’s blood-thinning effect?

Short answer

Olive oil does not appear to interfere with aspirin’s blood‑thinning (antiplatelet) effect. In typical dietary amounts, olive oil is generally considered safe to consume while taking aspirin, and it does not meaningfully reduce aspirin’s ability to keep platelets from clumping.

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What “blood‑thinning” means

• Aspirin is an antiplatelet medicine: it helps prevent platelets (tiny blood cells) from sticking together, lowering the chance of clots that can lead to heart attack or stroke. ^[1]
• Some medicines and supplements can amplify bleeding risk when combined with aspirin (for example, ibuprofen, naproxen, clopidogrel, fish oil/omega‑3s). These interactions are clinically important and well‑recognized. ^{[2] [3] [4] [5]}

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Olive oil and aspirin: what studies show

• In controlled trials comparing diets enriched with omega‑3 fatty acids versus olive oil, a single dose of aspirin prolonged bleeding time similarly, and olive oil did not blunt aspirin’s effect. The concomitant use of aspirin with an olive‑oil‑enriched diet did not shorten bleeding time compared with omega‑3s; variability was observed, but olive oil showed no clear interference. ^[6]
• These findings suggest olive oil does not reduce aspirin’s antiplatelet action in practical terms, especially at normal dietary intake levels. ^[6]

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How olive oil differs from fish oil

• Omega‑3 fatty acids (commonly from fish oil) can independently reduce platelet aggregation and may increase bleeding risk when combined with aspirin. This is why fish oil is often listed among supplements that can raise bleeding risk with aspirin. ^[4]
• Olive oil, rich in monounsaturated fat (oleic acid) and polyphenols, does not carry the same recognized additive bleeding risk profile with aspirin in major guidelines and consumer safety lists. Olive oil is not listed among substances that increase bleeding risk with aspirin. ^{[4] [3]}

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Practical guidance

• For most people, using extra‑virgin olive oil as part of a heart‑healthy diet is compatible with daily aspirin therapy and does not negate aspirin’s antiplatelet benefits. ^[6]
• The bigger cautions with aspirin involve other drugs (like ibuprofen or naproxen when taken regularly), certain prescription blood thinners, some antidepressants, and alcohol, all of which can increase bleeding risk. These combinations should be discussed with a clinician. ^{[2] [3] [4]}

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Safety tips

• If you take aspirin, watch for signs of bleeding, such as black or tarry stools, easy bruising, nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding from cuts, and seek medical advice if they occur. ^[1]
• Avoid regular use of non‑aspirin NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) with daily aspirin unless your clinician advises; the combination can raise bleeding risk and has complex cardiovascular considerations. Aspirin taken together with certain NSAIDs can increase gastrointestinal bleeding risk. ^{[2] [3]}
• Moderate alcohol only, as alcohol plus aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and increase bleeding risk. ^[4]

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Bottom line

Based on available evidence, dietary olive oil does not interfere with aspirin’s blood‑thinning effect and is generally safe to consume alongside aspirin as part of a balanced diet. ^[6]
If you use other supplements (especially omega‑3/fish oil) or medicines with aspirin, it’s wise to review them for potential bleeding interactions. Some supplements and medications can increase bleeding risks when combined with aspirin. ^{[4] [3] [2] [1]}