In the fifth century B.C., olive trees were widely cultivated across the Mediterranean. From the natural juices of the olive, olive oil became a hot commodity throughout the Greek colonies. Today, olive oil has sustained its role in the Italian diet and spread throughout the world. Olive oil is very beneficial to one’s health, due to its large amount of antioxidants and healthy fats, both of which maintain a healthy cholesterol level by raising good cholesterol and regulating bad cholesterol. Olive oil is processed in different varieties, ranging from extra virgin, which consists of the olive’s first oils, to extra light, which is highly processed with small traces of the olive juice. In addition to a multitude of health benefits, olive oil has a nutty, smooth taste that heightens the flavor of all types of dishes.