Extra virgin olive oil has many virtues that make it a very valuable ally for our health, first of all it helps to regulate the blood cholesterol level. There are many studies that show that a daily consumption of raw extra virgin olive oil significantly reduces the amount of LDL cholesterol (the so-called ‘bad’ cholesterol). High levels of LDL cholesterol cause the formation of plaques in our arteries which over time can cause heart attacks and strokes. Extra virgin olive oil helps to lower the level of bad cholesterol while the ‘good’ cholesterol or HDL is not altered in the slightest. Therefore, the consumption of extra virgin olive oil not only flavours dishes but also helps to prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease.