IS CHOCOLATE GOOD FOR YOU?

September 14, 2020 by Renee Tavoularis

IS CHOCOLATE GOOD FOR YOU?

Chocolate is the only ingredient that is its very own food group. Well not really—but it seems as if it should be. Powerfully comforting, creamy, delicious—many people eat chocolate at least several times a week. 

Which begs the question…

IS CHOCOLATE GOOD FOR YOU?

The answer is both yes and no. Chocolate has been used for centuries to treat bronchitis, sexual malaise, fatigue, hangovers, anemia, depression, memory loss, high blood pressure, poor eyesight, and more. It also helps release that feel-good neurotransmitter—serotonin—in the brain.

But eat the wrong kind and you’ll get loads of sugar, calories, and junky ingredients.

HOW TO EAT IT RESPONSIBLY

Chocolate begins life as raw cacao (pronounced kah-kow) beans. Loaded with antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and plant phenols, cacao is a powerful superfood. The more processed cacao becomes, however—think commercially produced candy bars—the fewer healthy components remain.

So how to get the most out of your chocolate fix?

  • Don’t be afraid of the dark. The darker the chocolate, the more beneficial cacao it contains.
  • Know your percentages: the number on dark chocolate packaging refers to the percentage of cacao bean in chocolate. For maximum health benefit, look for dark chocolate that has 75% to 85% cacao.
  • Go raw—or as unprocessed as possible.
Looking for more fun ways to enjoy your favorite food? You’ll love this dark chocolate bark.
Printer Friendly

Leave a comment

Comments will be reviewed prior to posting.


Also in Volume 80

HOW TO INCLUDE HEALTHY FATS INTO YOUR DIET NUTRITION
HOW TO INCLUDE HEALTHY FATS INTO YOUR DIET

Dietary fat: is it good or bad? Both. You see, not all fats are created equal.

READ MORE

AVOCADO DIP RECIPES: VEGAN OTHERS
AVOCADO DIP

Finding inspiration when cooking vegan meals isn't as difficult as people might think. Here's an exciting recipe for Avocado Dip.

READ MORE

10 PURPLE FOODS WITH POWERFUL HEALTH BENEFITS NUTRITION
10 PURPLE FOODS WITH POWERFUL HEALTH BENEFITS

Purple foods are often rich in special phytochemicals that have unique antioxidant benefits.

READ MORE

Sign up today to receive weekly Beauty, Nutrition and Lifestyle tips, exclusive offers, and 10% off your first purchase.

Fill out my online form.

Welcome to WELL WITHIN

Our beauty and wellness brand offers support, services and products to help you become WELL WITHIN your skin, mind and body.

Sign up today and receive your special Friends and Family 20% off your first purchase, valid until May 31, 2017.

Fill out my online form.

Stay Ever Well,
Lynne + Renee
Co-founders

DEAR FRIENDS AND FAMILY,

Thank you for signing up today to receive weekly Beauty, Nutrition and Lifestyle tips, exclusive offers and your special Friends and Family 20% off your first purchase, valid until May 31, 2017.

Fill out my online form.

Stay Ever Well,
Lynne + Renee

Sign up today to receive weekly Beauty, Nutrition and Lifestyle tips, exclusive offers, and 10% off your first purchase.

Fill out my online form.