September 2010
| Dark Chocolate |
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Dark chocolate are a rich source of flavonoids, a group of antioxidants found in a variety of foods including tea, red wine, and various fruits and vegetables. There are obviously more nutritious sources of flavonoids, however, if you are going to eat chocolate, you should choose chocolate with 70% cocoa or more. The darker the chocolate is, the better it is for you. Plant chemicals like flavonoids contribute to pigment, so, more flavonoids means darker chocolate and potentially greater health benefits. Finally, eat chocolate made without the use of 'hydrogenated' or 'partially hydrogenated' oils which are known to negatively impact cholesterol. Dark chocolate contains a number of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Chocolate also boosts serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain, which is why eating it makes you happy! Chocolate is high in fat, including saturated fat, so should be enjoyed in moderate amounts. |