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Healthy Chocolate? Absolutely.
Healthy Chocolate? Absolutely.
May 19 2004 |
By Jeffrey Herms
Chocolate is usually thought of as a sinful treat. Sure it tastes great, but all the sugar that goes into confectionary chocolate can make it hard on the arteries, not to mention the love handles. Well, have I got some wonderful news for you, especially if you are partial to dark chocolate.
In August 2003 it was shown in the scientific journal Nature that dark chocolate has substantial anti-oxidant properties. What does that mean? Anti-oxidants protect the heart and arteries from oxidative damage, which is analogous to the rust build up on a car over time. Unfortunately for milk-chocolate lovers, dairy mixed with chocolate actually counters this effect, so you can have only dark chocolate and not even a glass of milk with it if you want your body to reap all of the benefits.
A high level of consumption of black tea, which contains catechins, has for years now been considered a way to improve longevity and reduce the risk of heart disease. This new research on dark chocolate has shown that it contains at least four times the amount of these catechins per serving. Dutch researchers have concluded that the old Dutch habit of drinking a cup of tea with a chocolate cookie is not only enjoyable, but actually healthful. Of course, just like with alcohol consumption, moderation is key.
Professor Alan Crozier of Glasgow University has this to say on the subject: "I would advise moderate consumption, maybe a small bar of chocolate a day."
One little bar of the good stuff per day is just enough to get the anti-oxidants in, and keep the fat and cholesterol at bay.
Doesnt that just make your day?
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