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  The health benefits of chocolate have received a lot of press attention of late. The best way to take advantage of the antioxidants and health benefits touted by these scientific studies is to eat roasted cacao beans or nibs, or to eat a small amount of quality dark chocolate that is made with a high percentage of cacao and a low percentage of sugar. Chocolate and "Good" Cholesterol There have been recent studies touting the benefits of the flavonoids found in chocolate. Flavonoids, a type of antioxidant, have been associated with increased levels of HDL cholesterol, the "good" cholesterol that protects your artery walls. Calories High quality chocolate is made from beans that are grown, harvested and processed for taste, usually resulting in flavorful beans that require little sugar or other additives. As a result, high quality chocolate usually has fewer calories and does not result in cravings. For many people, it is possible to satisfy a chocolate craving with just a small piece of quality, dark chocolate. The Acne Myth The old wives tale that chocolate causes acne and obesity is more likely attributable to the sugar, oils, and synthetic ingredients added to candy bars. Quality chocolate that has only chocolate liquor, sugar, vanilla, and soy lecithin does not cause acne. Caffeine While chocolate has some caffeine present naturally, it has much less than coffee or tea. People who are caffeine sensitive often do not have trouble with chocolate. The "Love" Chemical Last, but certainly not least, chocolate includes a chemical called phenylethylamine, also known as the "love chemical", which causes the brain to release a b-endorphin. It is said to mimic the brain chemistry of a person in love, giving rise to chocolate's reputation as an aphrodisiac. Feel free to test this theory on your own! |
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