Olive Oil

Olive oil is a prime component of the Mediterranean diet. It is a natural juice which preserves the taste, aroma, vitamins and properties of the olive fruit. The oil has been in use since ancient times. The ancient Greeks called it 'Liquid Gold'. It was an essential part of their diet.
The benefits of the olive oil on health are due to its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids(mainly oleic acid) and its high content of antioxidative substances. Olive oil gives protection against heart disease by controlling LDL(bad) cholesterol levels while raising HDL(good) cholesterol levels. Olive oil is well tolerated by the stomach. It has a beneficial effect on ulcers and gastritis. Olive oil activates the secretion of bile and pancreatic hormones. It also lowers the incidence of gall stone formation.
Olive oil is extracted by pressing or crushing olives. Olive oil comes in different varieties depending on the amount of processing involved.
Extra Virgin is considered the best comprising the oil from the first pressing of the olives.
Virgin olive oil is from the second pressing.
Pure olive oil undergoes processing such as filtering and refining.
Extra light undergoes considerable processing with a very mild olive flavor.