Systematic Chaos

A Healthy Addiction?

Chocolate

I’ll admit it.I love chocolate!!!!Usually milk chocolate but occasionally dark chocolate too!!!So here are some facts about dark chocolate and why its good for you!!

Most dark chocolate bars contain antioxidants as well as the compound called epicatechin, which is a member of the plant flavonoids group. These flavonoids keep cholesterol from gathering in blood vessels, reduce the risk of blood clots, and slow down the immune responses that lead to clogged arteries. So, by eating a small amount of dark chocolate daily, you may actually be reducing your risk of a heart attack. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, has been found to have the lowest amount of both epicatechin and antioxidants.

However, not all chocolate is equal. In order to reap the benefits, you have to seek out the chocolate with the highest percentage of cocoa and make sure that the flavonoids have not been destroyed in the manufacturing process, as they sometimes are. Interestingly enough, consuming dark chocolate while drinking milk has also been shown to counteract the positive benefits, just like milk chocolate. And remember, also, that chocolate still is high in calories so be sure to portion a small amount for yourself rather than consuming the whole bar on one sitting (tough, but doable).