Who Loves Chocolate?

Remember when chocolate was only candy and "off limits" to any one looking after their health? Well, not any more. Research has shown that chocolate, particularly dark chocolate is rich in nutrients and may help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar and reduce the risk for heart disease. The cocoa bean is rich in flavonoids like those found in tea, red wine, fruits and vegetables.

The journal of Nutrition reports that studies conducted at the University of Illinois found participates who ate dark chocolate daily over eight weeks as part of a low fat diet showed significant reduction in the LDL “bad” cholesterol and blood pressure normalized. The Cambridge Jou
als have documented that cocoa improves antioxidant status and reduces blood vessel stiffening with increased blood flow. The report went on to say that inflammation was reduced which is associated with reduced risk for heart disease. In another study dark chocolate rich in flavonoids was found to improve glucose metabolism in persons with type II diabetes and decrease blood pressure as reported by The American journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Of course all chocolate is not created equal. Chocolate candy and confections have added saturated fats and sugar which contributes to weight gain and spike insulin levels. The average Hershey Bar contains 531 calories with added milk or cream and hydrogenated oils. Dark chocolate (70 percent cocoa) has the highest antioxidant level. The more pure cocoa the chocolate contains the more beneficial it will be. Bitter is definitely better for your health.

Nine out of ten people love chocolate and fifty percent of those will tell you they “crave” it. Still, if you are going to eat chocolate, make it dark chocolate and reap the health benefits. When looking for a healthy chocolate look for:

1. 70 percent pure cocoa.
2. Cocoa butter instead of milk fats and hydrogenated oils.
3. Dried and cold pressed products. Heat processed destroys 75n percent ont the flavonoids.
4. Low-glycemic sweeteners.

The nutrients in dark chocolate help bring your body into balance and reduce free radical damage which is associated with ageing and leaves us vulnerable to disease. Although dark chocolate is not intended to replace fruits and vegetables in your diet, it can be a welcomed addition in moderation to any well balanced, low fat diet.

So, enjoy small portions of dark chocolate. It’s okay.