2.14.2008 9:23 AM

Sweet Story

Chocolate Has Benefits, but Shouldn't Be Eaten by the Pound

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Photo: Alan Richardson

By Annie Bell Muzaurieta

Whether you're in love or not, you're likely using Valentine's Day as an excuse to eat your favorite chocolate.

You might even be patting yourself on the back since research has shown that cocoa and chocolate have antioxidant properties; can help prevent bad cholesterol from accumulating; and can relax blood vessels by reducing inflammation, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

However, the article's writer reminds us that studies showing the benefits of chocolate done on real people use more chocolate than would be normally consumed. For example, several studies reference 100 grams of chocolate, which is equivalent to slightly less than three 1.3 ounce Dove dark chocolate bars or 4 cups of hot chocolate. (Consume this much and no doubt the cons will outweigh the pros.)

In addition, processing can remove the healthful compounds found in chocolate, and many of us eat cocoa in that form (milk chocolate candy bars). With this in mind, the writer offers a few suggestions for this Valentine's Day: Stick to dark chocolate, which has been shown to have more heart-healthy benefits. Opt for mini or snack-size bars to control fat and calories. Remember that chocolate is a treat, and not a health food to be eaten in large quantities.

And might we add—above all, enjoy.

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