Valentine's Day is over and now you are wondering what to do with that chocolate. You have heard that it's healthy but how much, what kind and in what way will it benefit your health?
How much: 1 ounce of chocolate has more flavonoids (help trigger enzymes in our body to fight disease) than a glass of red wine. In order to avoid any weight gain but satisfy chocolate cravings, limit consumption to 1 to 2 ounces per day of dark chocolate.
What kind: Dark chocolate is richer in flavonoids than milk or white chocolate. The fat in chocolate also contains two thirds good fat. This is Oleric and Stearic acids which are found in olive oil and won't clog the arteries.
How will it benefit your health: Chocolate is derived from plants. It will offer the same antioxidant benefits as dark vegetables. This includes heart health, low blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels (reduces LDL). Source: Longevity
In addition to the above, chocolate just plain tastes good. When something tastes good, it makes us feel good. When something makes us feel good there is an increase in endorphins, serotonin, and theobromine in the brain. These are all stimulating chemicals in our body.
Good quality chocolate has few additives when it is processed. It should be stored in a cool, dry place and will last approximately one year. If a whitish coating appears on the surface of stored chocolate, this means there has been temperature fluctuations or it has been exposed to some moisture. This is called "bloom". Blooming is when some ingredient separation has occurred. It is still good for cooking and may be eaten. There may be a change to the texture from silky smooth to a slightly grainy sensation on the tongue.
A Daily Dose of Chocolate Recipe (1 serving)
- 1 TBS non-dutched cocoa powder
- 2 TBS hot water
- 1 cup (8 oz) warm low-fat milk
- 1 squeeze (a "squeeze is up to you) of honey to sweeten
Blend all the above and enjoy.
Note: All the above ingredients and good quality chocolate may be found at the local Hannafords Grocery stores.
Comments
Thanks Joanne! I love that chocolate can be healthy in addition to delicious! I got hooked on dark chocolate a few years ago and eat a small square on most days. My favorite brand is Endangered Species.
Pam: Thanks for your comment.
I just wanted to add, that Clay of Chocolate Life informed me, there was research that suggested the milk solids found in chocolate may make the antioxidant absorbtion not as readily accessible to the body. Can anyone send me a link to this research? I want to read more.
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