The real gift in a box of (certain kinds of) chocolate is improved health. Give yourself a present and watch this.
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What has been used for centuries to cure everything from upset stomachs and raging fevers to sagging libidos? The answer is probably not what you think; it is chocolate. Or rather, chocolate's main ingredient called cocoa.
Going back in time, the ancient Aztecs ground cocoa seeds with seasonings to make a bitter, spicy drink they thought promoted good health. Long before that, there was evidence that a similar concoction was consumed for its power to nourish and strengthen, and as an aphrodisiac. By the time this creation was brought from the Americas to Europe about 500 years ago, it was a mixture of cocoa, flour and spices. It quickly became a foundation for prescriptions used in hospitals.
It is important to note that "chocolate" and "cocoa" are not the same thing. "Cocoa" is the non-fat component of finely ground cocoa beans. It is used in chocolate making, or as powder for cooking and drinks. "Chocolate" refers to the combination of cocoa, butter, sugar and other ingredients that are made into a solid food product.
Aside from an energy jolt from the sugar and caffeine, is there an advantage to consuming chocolate? You may be thrilled to know that a number of recent studies say "yes," especially if you eat dark chocolate.
Chocolate's essential health benefits probably come from the strong antioxidants in cocoa called flavonoids. Antioxidants can reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is a cornerstone of overall health since inflammation has been linked to a number of chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer. A small amount of dark chocolate can also lower blood pressure, and keeping blood pressure levels low is important for cardiovascular health.
Flavonoids are the nutritional powerhouse of cocoa, and it is the cocoa that gives chocolate its healthy antioxidants. Another interesting fact is that cocoa also gives chocolate it's brown color. That is why eating dark chocolate is a healthier choice than eating milk chocolate. Of note, white chocolate is made from the fatty part of the bean that contains no cocoa at all. So white chocolate has no brown color, and therefore no antioxidants.
Here is what I tell my patients about consuming chocolate; choose dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70 percent or higher. Limit yourself to no more than 3 ounces (85 grams) of dark chocolate a day, which is the amount shown in studies to be helpful. Because this amount may contain up to 450 calories, you may want to cut calories in other areas or step up your exercise to compensate.
If you are looking to increase your intake of flavonoids as part of an overall healthful, balanced diet other good sources include tea, grapes, wine, and various fruits (especially apples and certain berries).
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