Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mass and bone quality. It can increase your risk of fractures.
The rates of osteoporosis are lower in Mediterranean countries than in the rest of Europe, leading to speculation that olives might protect against this condition.
Some of the plant compounds found in olives and olive oil have been shown to help prevent bone loss in animal studies.
While human studies are lacking, animal studies and the data linking the Mediterranean diet to decreased fracture rates are promising.