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Oh the love of chocolate is one of the pleasures in life. Not that mass produced kind, but good quality chocolate say from Europe. I find their chocolate is not a sweet and it is just better in texture and taste. Although there are good chocolates in the United States, European can't be beat. And now people are finding out that chocolate the dark kind, is actually good for the body. From the Maya and Aztecs to the kings of England chocolate has been a powerful food. Chocolate is like a best friend but without the back talk, it soothes, it comforts and will energize your body and spirit. Chocolate has a language all its own, it will tell you I love you, I am sorry and anything you want it to say. It makes a great gift if you do not know what else to give.
What our ancestors knew many centuries ago we are discovering the benefits of dark chocolate, such as lowering the blood pressure as it contains a chemical known as epicatechin, it creates a healthy blood flow throughout our bodies. It will not raise your cholesterol, and in fact could lower the LDL cholesterol. It is also an extremely powerful antioxidant. It will fight the free radical damage and can prevent disease. The USDA ranks dark chocolate at the top over green tea when it comes to ORCA (a scale that calculates the antioxidant levels in certain foods.)
Another good reason to eat dark chocolate is it has been said it is good for the teeth. It contains phosphate and other minerals that will not harm your teeth. It will fight decay as it has tannins in it, this protects teeth from cavities. Dark chocolate can help in your digestive system as well. It has been used for centuries to cure diarrhea and other intestinal problems. It can also help with that pesky cough as it coats the throat, relieving the urge to cough all the time.
Some say that dark chocolate can be used as an anti depressant, as we all know that it does. No one has to tell me that one. Eating a piece of dark chocolate boosts your energy level and will help get your mood in a better place. Even smelling it gives one a sense of relaxation. Now these findings do not give you the license to eat a box of dark chocolate in one setting. Taken in moderation, as all things, it will help your overall health and make you enjoy the day.
Richard likes to also write about normal cholesterol levels on one of his new websites. You may also find the information on mini maglite bulbs interesting on my new site.
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In spite of knowing about the ill effects of eating chocolates, chocolate lovers find it impossible to resist them. Interestingly, over a long span of time, this sweet indulgence has managed to retain a long list of loyalists. According to most chocolate lovers, they are favored not just because of their distinct flavor and taste. Avid eaters report that chocolates can respond to them emotionally helping them to deal with stress and everyday problems. For the health conscious chocolate eaters, there cannot be a better option than dark chocolates that have become widely popular all over the world.
Dark chocolates that have a higher anti oxidant value are also extremely beneficial for our health. This is chiefly because the dark varieties are prepared from raw cacao. As we all know, cacao beans contain more than 300 chemical compounds that make them rich in anti oxidants. The presence of anti oxidants in the this type of chocolate equates to reduced degeneration of cells in our body. This in turn, helps the eater to work more energetically. Apart from the anti oxidant value that these possess, it is further interesting to note that dark chocolates contain vitamins such as A, B1, C, D and E along with calcium, potassium and iron. These essential elements help you to remain active.
Dark chocolates are also helpful in lowering possibilities of heart related diseases such as cardiac arrests and heart attacks. This is made possible by the flavonoids present in cacao beans. Flavonoids reduce fats thereby preventing blockage of arteries. As a result, chances of heart diseases are minimized to a great extent. Moreover, dark chocolates are known for lifting moods and increasing alertness in stressed out people. These factors make dark chocolates the best choice when it comes to enjoying a tempting treat without compromising on health.
Roland Poitevin is a dedicated writer with a passion for business and environmental issues.
You can check out his new website at Poker Tables which helps people find the Best Poker Tables available and information they are looking relating to this subject.
In the last couple of years dark chocolate has been cropping up in the news and online, health journals and financial reports. But is this just a sudden revelation? You either are a chocoholic or you know one. Haven't these people known for as long as memory serves them that chocolate makes them feel better? For those who try to control their chocolate consumption, it is their greatest guilty pleasure. What if chocolate is not just a new kid on the block? The latest health fad? What if I told you chocolate had been around for over 3500 years. And from the beginning ancient peoples realized its healthy properties. They ground the beans into a paste or powder, mixed it with water and sipped the foam. No heat, no chemicals, no sugar, no milk, no added fat. "YUCK", you say. But king Montezuma marched his troops for days consuming nothing but this pure, raw chocolate. And money literally grew on the cacao tree. The beans were traded for other valuable goods in the market system of civilized cultures all over the Americas.
When Europeans visited the New World, they saw the value in this rare fruit and took it with them back home. But the more delicate crowd in the refined cities of Europe couldn't get past the taste. So over time they learned to roast the beans to alleviate the bitterness. A little later, someone figured out if you treated them with alkali, it took away even more of the bitterness. Did no one ever consider that consuming alkali might not be the healthiest thing? And then the clever chocolate makers found out that by adding sugar and milk they had a highly consumable, and marketable, product. But at this time, they didn't realize that through all that processing they had left behind up to 80% of what made the chocolate an all purpose food and ancient energy drink. But they didn't leave behind it's value in the marketplace. As manufacturers and candy makers discovered more and more ways to present chocolate, they discovered more and more ways to make money with it. Chocolate has remained a marketable commodity during economic downturns and upswings. Statistics show that when times are good, people celebrate with chocolate, and when times are bad, they soothe themselves with it.
So, in keeping with the pattern, when science began to recover the healthy properties of chocolate the makers leaned their ears in that direction. And when consumers began to look for it, they started tweaking their recipes with stronger cocoa content and nuts and berries. But even at their best they still typically roasted and alkalized their beans so they could use cheaper sweeteners to make it edible. At first, you could only find the real stuff in small candy kitchens, where they were willing to hand process the beans in tiny batches. So only the chosen few could buy it. A few of the finer ones got internet sites and sold their wares more widely. But how many customers can one small kitchen serve? Gradually some of the larger companies improved their chocolate, so the average Walmart shopper had a chance to at least choose something a little healthier than a chocolate flavored kiss. And one or two even put all their energy into producing a chocolate that takes it all the way back to it's ancient Mayan roots in purity and nutrition. And once again, historically, a company that has taken the time and resources to make the superior product will reap the most benefits in the market. And in this case, those who get on the bandwagon of either consumption or marketing of these chocolates could find their life situations changed in ways they never imagined.
Terri, along with husband Johnny, operates a healthy chocolate business from their home and on their travels. They live in rural western Kentucky and have one daughter and a brand new granddaughter. They are passionate about sharing what eating healthy chocolate, and being in the healthy chocolate business, has done for them in the three years since they first discovered it. Although their favorite way to share chocolate is face to face, they also have a lucrative online business and look forward to each new friend it brings their way.
http://eatchocolategetpaidnow.com
http://myfitchocolate.com
Ever have a craving to dip into a delicious box of chocolates? Ever felt that a little chocolate might be just the thing right now? Well, it isn't surprising at all! Eating chocolates is one way of bringing out feelings of relaxation and a natural sense of well being. Aside from those reasons, chocolates have have also been found to have health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and introducing antioxidants to the body. The best kind of chocolate with the highest amount of rich nutritional value to promote good health is dark chocolate
Why is dark chocolate healthy? Compared to milk chocolate, dark chocolates have more cacao which is the key component in the obtaining the health benefits. It also has less sugar, and no milk ingredient. This is the reason why dark chocolate is also called plain chocolate The health benefits of dark chocolate may well replace the advantage of eating apples everyday. According to a study, eating 1.6-ounce of dark chocolate daily will be good for your health. The top health benefits include:
* Lowering risks of heart diseases. - The flavonoids content of dark chocolates promote blood clotting and this helps increase the blood flow in the heart.
* Lowering blood pressure -
* Lowering cholesterol -
* Feelings of relaxation that act as an anti-depressant -
* Promotion of good digestion and improved appetite
* Potential cancer prevention
* Antioxidants
* Recent studies show that it slows down decline of brain activity due to age
* Indications that it aids in treating anemia and kidney stones
So just why is dark chocolate is healthy ? Dark chocolate is healthy due to the fact that it comes from the plant seeds of cacao. Since its natural components come from nature, it can carry the same kind of nutrients and benefits that one can get from any fruit or vegetable. Dark chocolates are created by mixing fat and sugar to cacao but without milk additives such as those found in regular commercial chocolates. The flavonoids found in dark chocolates is believed to contain more antioxidants than a number of other fruits such as strawberries. So eating dark chocolates will help you lower your blood pressure and assist some of the hormones in your body to be better balanced.
Like most good things, there is a potential downside. Unfortunately, too much of it can still be fattening, but that is true for most things! While dark chocolate has less fat than other chocolates and a lot of other sweets, too much of a good thing tips the balance of the benefits and markedly increases your calorie consumption. So if you plan to include dark chocolate in your daily diet and you are not contented with consuming just 1.6 ounce of it, better cut out or lessen your intake of other high caloric foods. You may eat more chocolate but you definitely want to make sure that you maintain your daily calorie intake to avoid unwanted pounds. Also, eating higher quality chocolates can assist in cutting back the amount. The higher the quality and types of chocolate that you eat the more quickly you are to be satisfied with you delicious taste treat.
For some, eating dark chocolate is as pleasurable an experience as kissing! Aside from the natural high it brings, it also assists you in promoting good health if eaten in a specific amount of daily dark chocolate Daily small doses of dark chocolate included in a balanced diet and regular exercise can make for a healthier you. It is possible that the health benefits of dark chocolate may surpass those of some other fruits and vegetables while also giving the added benefit from giving you warm feeling inside out. So enjoy! Chocolate can be a part of your life and you don't have to go overboard - A little a day just might keep the doctor away!
Colleen Maguire -
Writer, Traveler and Chocolate Lover
For More Delicious Chocolate Ideas and Tastes: Explore Gourmet Dark Chocolates.
With a lot of talk about health and chocolate it is important to realize that there is a big difference between all types of chocolate and the health benefits they provide. One of the main health benefits that has been found in healthy dark chocolate is the flavonoids and they are more highly concentrated in dark chocolate because it has a higher cocoa percentage.
It is the cocoa which comes from a plant, which provides all of the health benefits. It is not only full of flavanoids but also minerals and other elements beneficial to health. Also white chocolate and milk chocolate contain more fat, refined sugar and fillers, which are not healthy.
Products which are coated with chocolate should also be eaten with caution because the amount of chocolate may be small and therefore the health benefits minimal. The product which is coated in the chocolate may be unhealthy and outweigh any health benefits provided by the chocolate. It is a balancing act, like any sort of healthy eating to make sure that you have the chocolate as part of a healthy balanced diet and have the dark chocolate if you want to ensure you are getting the maximum health benefits.
There is also a difference between different types of dark chocolate and this can effect the health benefits. Some have been processed a lot and have a lot of added sugar and so they are not so healthy as the ones which are less processed and have lower sugar levels. Some have a higher cocoa percentage than others as well. Check the labels of the chocolate to find out the ingredients and calculate which you think will be the best for you.
It is best to look out for the ones which have low sugar and high cocoa and as few other additives as possible. There are some bars which contain raw unprocessed cocoa and these are likely to be the best healthy dark chocolate.
Want to find out more, about how healthy dark chocolate can not only make you healthy, but can help you have a secondary income stream from home. Click on Healthy Chocolate Business to learn more.
A Bit of History
Thousands of years ago, the Aztec Empire had used cocoa as part of the ingredients to make spicy bitter drinks for their special occasions. At the later centuries, cocoa beans were brought to Spain, which then spread across Europe. Only at the end of the 19th Century, milk was added to chocolate to eat as well as to drink. Chocolate was once a fashionable choice, meant for the noble, rich and famous but now, it is meant for everyone.
Health Benefits
There are many conducted studies revealed the much benefits one could gain just by having a little bite of dark chocolate. To be considered as dark chocolate, a product should have at least 65 percent of cocoa content.
Why not dairy chocolate? A study shows that milk does interfere in the process of antioxidants absorption, thus lower the chances to fight certain disease. The same goes to white chocolate, which contains no flavonoids (solid cocoa), known to be important as an antioxidants agent.
The following are 3 main reasons why it is good to consume dark chocolate:
1. Antioxidants
Compounds called phenolic phytochemicals, or flavonoids found in cocoa act to protect the body from free radicals and damage that can lead to ailments such as heart disease, strokes, diabetes, asthma and cancer (lung cancer, prostate cancer).
Procyanidins produce nitric oxide which helps to stabilize blood pressure, balance up hormones inside the body and also decreases blood clotting.
It also lowers cholesterol level by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) oxidation and help increase HDL (good cholesterol) concentrations in the blood.
2. Stimulants
Caffeine help eases the symptoms of pre-menstrual, boost spirits and increase energy.
Have low glycemic index which act to maintain blood glucose and insulin levels.
Theobromine is mildly diuretic (increases urine production), is a mild stimulant, and relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi in the lungs. (Note that this may be toxic or lethal to dogs and other domestic animals such as horses because these animals metabolize theobromine more slowly than humans).
3. Antidepressant and Aphrodisiac
Phenyl ethylamines and serotonin in chocolate are hormones known to help boost positive emotions.
Endorphins help create a sensational and pleasure feelings.
It also helps improving the flow of blood to the key regions of the brain thus prevents fatigue and ageing effects besides help to lift spirit.
Good Fats vs. Bad Fat
Some of the fats in chocolate do not impact our cholesterol. The fats are 1/3 oleic acid, 1/3 stearic acid and 1/3 palmitic acid:
Oleic Acid is a healthy monounsaturated fat that is also found in olive oil.
Stearic Acid is a saturated fat but one which research is shows has a neutral effect on cholesterol.
Palmitic Acid is also a saturated fat, one which raises cholesterol and heart disease risk.
That means, only 1/3 of the fats is bad for us. The others react positively throughout our body.
Useful Tips
One bar of dark chocolate has around 400 calories. If we eat half a bar of chocolate a day, we must balance those 200 calories by eating less of something else. It is always good to substitute our snacks or sweets with good bar of dark chocolate in our daily intakes.
Chocolate is a complex food with over 300 compounds and chemicals in each bite. To really enjoy and appreciate chocolate, take the time to taste it.
Avoid anything with caramel, nougat or other fillings as they tend to add fats and sugar besides holding us from getting the benefits of dark chocolate. However, chocolate with nuts, flavorings and peels will do just fine.
It is better not to eat chocolate with milk as it will prevent the antioxidants absorption in our body, thus erase the utmost benefits of chocolate.
A Healthy Diet
Dark chocolate by far is one of the best additions for a healthy diet. It can be consumed in any form like cakes, pastries, and bars or even as beverages. However, the key for healthy diets always come in moderation. This means that dark chocolate should be eaten moderately and never too much as it can still be a high-calorie and high-fat food. Fresh fruits and vegetables should always be eaten regularly as they are still the best source of antioxidants, therefore, never substitute them.
The author is a freelance writer dedicating her time doing general research on certain topic of interest regarding health issues. More health, nutrition and diet info available at http://healthnutritiondiet.blogspot.com
If someone were to tell you to eat more chocolate as part of a healthy diet, you may look at them like they sprouted a second head. Actually, they are right and wrong. Dark chocolate provides many healthy benefits, whereas milk chocolate and white chocolate do not. So, the statement should really be to eat more dark chocolate. The benefits of the healthy chocolate are that it helps fight off bad things in the body.
Dark chocolate offers many good healthy benefits. It has been shown to lower high blood pressure. That's not to say you should eat as much as you can get your hands on, but it is a good treat to have daily to increase the antioxidant levels in your body. The antioxidants destroy the free radicals that get in the body through poor diets and the environment which can lead to heart disease. Studies have been done to compare and contrast dark chocolate, white chocolate and milk chocolate. Dark chocolate, the healthy chocolate, was better for the body hands down over the others.
Although you cannot live on this kind of chocolate alone, making it a part of your daily diet is not a bad idea. Be sure that you balance it out with other healthy foods as well. Vegetables, lean meats and fruits are also important to take in regularly. Replace your sweets intake with the dark chocolate and include with your regular diet to be healthy.
If you hear your friend stating that she needs chocolate to reduce her stress, or to make her feel better after a bad day, then she is expressing the need for seratonin and phenylethylamine, which are mood boosters found in chocolate. Eating chocolate releases those into the body and gives a feel good experience
Not only will it help with heart and blood pressure, it reduces the levels of bad cholesterol in the body and can help increase blood flow to the brain. It is actually a good snack for diabetics. However, checking with the doctor before indulging would be wise. Even though it has good ingredients, it also contains sugar and fat as well. The flavonoids are the good part of the dark chocolate that outweighs the fattening characteristics. Keep the amounts of healthy chocolate reasonable, but know that when you choose that as a snack, you are doing something good for your body as well as your taste buds.
Rick Varner has dealt with low back pain and high blood pressure for years. He investigates and writes about healthy alternatives to drugs and chemicals. For more information about healthy dark chocolate, visit his website at [http://www.cocoarick.com]
Many people believe that consuming chocolate only makes their body fat, and some even anti-chocolate just because they are afraid of being fat. Yeah, it does contain fats, but did you know that it has many health benefits?
Chocolate is popular gift since hundreds of years ago. No needs to question why as all people know how delicious it is. It has inspired many writers and filmmakers to make stories and films about this delicious thing, and some people even swear that they would go anywhere to find chocolate!
Being widely sold in Valentine's Day, a chocolate is considered as a way to express one's love. Its sweet taste is often compared to the sweet feeling of love. The way it melts in your mouth is like how people melt when somebody states her or his love.
Made of cocoa, dark chocolate has many health benefits as (however) it is made from plants. It is rich of antioxidants that help you relax blood pressure. The content of antioxidants is 8 times the number found in strawberries! The antioxidants also help balance certain hormones in the body.
For those need something to lower cholesterol, this delicious food can be a good choice. Studies have shown that it can reduce LDL cholesterol. If you have high blood pressure, you can lower it by consuming only a small bar of dark chocolate everyday. It is also good for your heart and your cardiovascular system.
Many people even say that consuming chocolate makes people happy. Consuming it gives you a pleasure feeling since it stimulates the production of endorphin. For those often get depressed, they are suggested to consume it because it can act as an anti-depressant.
You may feel a dilemma of being fat and being healthy. However, it is a matter of your self discipline. Just limit your intake to stay healthy without being fat.
Doing sports regularly is also helpful in keeping you slim and healthy. Why do not you try to play softball? Professional players use softball pitching machines to increase their skills. You can consider buying pitching machine balls as a gift for yourself.
Dark chocolates have a lot of positives. Not only do they taste delightful but they can put a smile on anyone's face when given as a gift. Additionally, dark chocolates may also play a positive role in one's sex life. Now you know that someone feeding you Hershey cherry cordials can be very erotic and be a tasty part of foreplay but this is not the only way that dark chocolates might impact your sex life. There is actually evidence to suggest that dark chocolates, even one Hershey's cherry cordial, are an aphrodisiac. We do know for a fact that when chocolate is consumed serotonin is released in the brain, which is a feel good chemical. Also, dark chocolates have phenyl-ethylamine that stimulates a dopamine release in the brain's pleasure center which frequently occurs during orgasm. So, it appears that eating dark chocolate can make you happy in more ways than one!
Dark chocolates have been considered aphrodisiacs for thousands of years, even back to the Mayan empire. Today they retain their mysterious powers to heat up one's sex life and many women who eat dark chocolates on a regular basis report a better sex life than women who do not. Of course, there is no sound evidence that shows dark chocolates have a significant correlation with increased sexual enjoyment but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. There are lots of men and women out there who eat dark chocolates on a regular basis not only because they taste good but also to rev up their sex lives.
The stimulant that may help you with your sex life is found mostly in dark chocolate and considerably less in other chocolates like semi sweet and milk. So, if you want to enjoy an erotic evening of feeding chocolates to your partner make sure they are dark chocolates, specifically made with cacao, that have the most stimulant causing chemicals. Keep in mind that dark chocolates will not act as a drug and have you feeling as if you smoked pot or took a hit of ecstasy. But, dark chocolate will help you relax, get in the mood, and even sharpen your pleasure receptors so you will be more receptive to lovemaking.
Finding quality dark chocolates used to be quite difficult and then those you did find were bitter. But, today you can go in most stores and find outstanding dark chocolate on the shelves that will help you prepare for a night of passion not to mention there are many cardiovascular benefits to dark chocolate. There are lots of good reasons to add dark chocolate to your diet. Just don't go overboard because it still is fattening!
Caitlina Fuller is a freelance writer. Dark chocolates may also play a positive role in one?s sex life. Now you know that someone feeding you Hershey cherry cordials can be very erotic and be a tasty part of foreplay but this is not the only way that dark chocolates might impact your sex life. There is actually evidence to suggest that dark chocolates, even one Hershey?s cherry cordial, are an aphrodisiac.
Contrary to popular belief, there are many benefits to eating chocolate, especially dark chocolate. Chocolate started out as a drink made from cacao beans in pre-Columbian Mexico hundreds of years ago. The drink was said to have revitalizing and restorative properties. Today, we enjoy chocolate mainly because of its sweet and rich taste. This is because of the added sugar and milk in the production of modern chocolate. However, chocolate started off as dark and bitter like the original cacao beans it came from.
Since the cacao bean originates from a plant, it contains a lot of the health benefits which are associated with dark vegetables. The benefits come from flavonoids. They act as antioxidants inside the body, protecting the body from aging that is caused by free radicals and damage that can lead to heart disease. A large amount of antioxidants can be found in dark chocolate. The flavonoids contained within it produce nitric oxide which helps to relax blood pressure and balance a number of hormones throughout the body.
What it comes down to it, dark chocolate can be very good for your heart. Eating a small bar of it every day can help keep your heart healthy and improve your cardiovascular system by reducing blood pressure and lowering cholesterol. Studies have shown that a daily intake of a small amount of dark chocolate reduces blood pressure. It has also been known to reduce LDL cholesterol by as much as ten percent.
The health benefits associated with dark chocolate are not limited to improving your heart. Many people prefer the slightly bitter taste of dark chocolate to the sweetened taste of normal milk chocolate. It contains much less sugar and fat than normal chocolate. It also stimulates the production of endorphins in the body which give a sensation of pleasure when eating it. It also contains serotonin which is an anti-depressant hormone. There is also caffeine and a number of other natural substances that act as stimulants. This is why so many people love eating chocolate. It tastes so good and leaves you feeling on a high afterwards.
While the taste of dark chocolate may require some getting used to, it is an excellent place to start if you want to lose weight by eating healthy. Instead of eating normal chocolate or candy bars try replacing it with a dark chocolate bar. It contains much less fat and sugar yet is still tasty and has more health benefits.
Like wine tasting, chocolate tasting is also something that can be greatly enjoyed. Because making chocolate has become such an involved process, with each bar containing over 300 different flavor compounds, it is worthwhile spending time to really taste and enjoy the chocolate. Dark chocolate is the original taste and is not smothered in sugar or added milk flavors. Dark is also the favored chocolate when it comes to cooking and baking. Chocolate that is both bitter and dark can be used in the preparation of savory dishes.
Article by Nancy Cope of IndulgeInChocolate an online chocolate shop - the place to shop for dark chocolate gifts for that special someone.
Chocolate has been around for a long time. It has been a staple for many people to help them through their day. It has a calming effect on people who eat it. The problem with most chocolate that people indulge themselves with is that it is fattening. Milk chocolate and white chocolate are good at settling cravings for stress relief, but really have no positive effects biologically for your body. Dark chocolate, however, has a much different positive effect on the body.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Dark chocolate is considered the healthy chocolate. It has benefits that far outweigh those of the other chocolates available today. Milk Chocolate and even white chocolate contain fillers that give them that great taste. Fillers that are unnecessary for you and cause you to get rounder as you eat them on a regular basis. With the dark chocolate benefits, you could actually lose weight.
Eating this kind of chocolate provides you with antioxidants which will help remove free radicals from your body. These free radicals can wreak havoc on your digestive system and your overall health. They can make you feel tired and they definitely won't relieve your aches and pains as dark chocolate can. The antioxidants in dark chocolate are a benefit to your health because it can help to ease joint pain, arthritis, help with sleeping soundly, and reduce healing time between workouts. There are also the increase in energy levels by providing vitamin B into your body.
TASTE IS EVERYTHING
Everyone wants to be healthy and feel good, so what is not to like? The taste. Most things that promise better health are the things that don't taste so good. This can be conquered. This kind of chocolate provides all of the nutrients and healthy products that tastes good, too. As a matter of fact, eating the healthy, great-tasting dark chocolate helps you not be as hungry for more chocolate or other fattening foods as well. It seem to satiate the hunger. It satisfies your taste buds.
There are several types of dark chocolate that offer healthy benefits, the objective is to find the one that can substitute for the milk chocolate and white chocolate for which you are used to snacking. If you know it is better for you and it tastes just as good or even better than those others, then the health benefits you receive for eating it instead will help boost your body into excellence.
Rick Varner has dealt with low back pain and high blood pressure for years. He investigates and writes about healthy alternatives to drugs and chemicals. For more information about healthy dark chocolate, visit his website at [http://www.cocoarick.com]
People who are overweight at any point in their lives greatly increase their chances of developing diabetes, heart disease and numerous other health issues. Once you have decided it's time to take action and pursue a healthier lifestyle, you may be wondering what types of supplements and tools can help you along your path.
It is well known that whole food supplements can improve nutrient and vitamin absorption and levels within our bodies. Raw, whole foods are chock full of antioxidants; the best known way to ward off disease and sickness. The benefits of dark healthy chocolate for weight loss utilize this fact.
Due to the intricate process of making cold pressed cacao, whole nutrient levels are maintained in this whole food supplement. When compared to highly processed foods, the nutritional quality is superseded by nutrient levels in these products.
Benefits of dark healthy chocolate for weight loss include ease in use. Remember when mom wouldn't let you eat dessert before your dinner? Chocolate lovers rejoice! Many users of unprocessed healthy chocolate simply eat the delicious food prior to any meal. The nutrients found in the chocolate will "wake up" your digestive system and ready it for the work to come.
We are aware that in order to lose weight you need to feed your body the right foods, but also want to increase our basal metabolic rate. Our metabolism levels will determine how quickly we burn and utilize the nutrients we ingest. Anything that is not used will be turned into extra body fat.
The tannins and theo-bromine contained in this whole food increase the benefits of dark healthy chocolate for weight loss journeys. These ingredients may help to metabolize your meals more efficiently, thus converting less food into extra fat.
The efficiency levels of your digestive system are the first way to increase metabolic rates. When your intestines are working at full steam, so are the other cells throughout your body - in order to use the resulting nutrients quickly enough to keep up with your digestion. This increase in work throughout your body burns more calories at a higher rate, even while you are sitting dormant.
Increasing your metabolism also allows you to eat normally and not feel deprived. Other benefits of dark healthy chocolate for weight loss include the effect it has on your psyche. If you are a chocolate lover, you will never need to feel guilty about having a piece of your favorite sweet thing.
Preventing the feeling of being deprived will help you avoid overeating and consuming unhealthy sweet alternatives. Utilizing the benefits of dark healthy chocolate for weight loss, combined with a healthy diet and exercise, will help you reach your goals sooner than you thought possible. Dark healthy chocolate for weight loss has just one of the many health benefits and perhaps some that we aren't aware of at this time. The brand and reputation continues to grow with the scientific researches done nowadays. Helping friends and family better their health and improve their way of life can be achieved by eating dark healthy chocolate.
To learn more about Dark Healthy Chocolate for Weight Loss, visit Richard's Healthy Chocolate [http://benefitsofxocai.com] blog. Author: Richard is passionate about sharing health and wellness with others. He also devotes the time, energy, and effort into his team and works with them to ensure their success.
When most of us think of chocolate we know that while it may be fun to eat, that it can also make us fatter than we are today. Chocolate is not considered a food that you should eat while you're dieting as it's usually rich in sugar and calories.
Surprisingly, though, dark chocolate is a different story. Most people don't know about the many health benefits of dark chocolate and they should because it can prove to be a blessed addition to any weight loss process. Yes, I said weight loss.
Not every product which has "Dark Chocolate" printed on the cover really deserves that name. As most chocolates are filled with added sugar, you want to make sure that what you're eating will have a high dose of cocoa which is what makes dark chocolate healthy. A good rule of thumb would be to eat anything with 70% cocoa content or more. I usually go for 85% but most people find that to be too bitter. 70% should be enough and will still contain a lot of sweetness.
We all know how hard it is to stick to a diet plan and be deprived of anything sweet. This is where darker chocolate can actually help you lose weight. Being as healthy as it is, which we will get into in a moment, and rather low in sugar, it can help you satisfy your sweet tooth without filling you with empty calories and sugar. This can help you stick to your diet plan for longer and lose more weight in the long run.
But this isn't the end of the benefits of dark chocolate. It gets much better than this. You see, dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, powerful antioxidants which help your body destroy free radicals.
Free radicals are nasty little molecules which circle around in your body and attack your cells from within. They're destructive, potentially hazardous, and accelerate the aging process. Antioxidants are your best allies in the fight against these free radicals and dark chocolate if full of them.
The problem with milk chocolate is that it seems that milk interrupts how the body digests antioxidants, so you're not only getting tons of sugar but not enjoying the benefits either.
In addition, dark chocolate has been shown to act as an effective stress reducer. It basically helps you alleviate tension and induces a feeling of well-being. Naturally, this is something which can also lead to a sort of addiction, but as long as you eat it in moderation, the stress reduction effect can prove to be very beneficial.
Most people don't know, but stress can lead to an increase in abdominal fat. This means that dark chocolate can actually help you lose belly fat. Surprising, right?
Naturally, this article is not an invitation to stuff yourself silly with chocolate. You shouldn't overdo things. However, a small bar here and there can do little harm and much good.
To learn how to lose belly fat fast, go to How to Burn Belly Fat Fast.
To learn more about why chocolate is healthy go here: Healthy Benefits of Dark Chocolate.
John Davenport lost over 30 pounds in his twenties after being overweight most of his life. He now runs a weight loss forum and publishes a diet and fitness newsletter.
There are a lot of reasons why dark chocolate is many of Americans favorite cravings, there have been scientific studies that are showing exactly what is inside of a piece of dark chocolate. There is more to it than you think. There are a few chemicals inside every piece of chocolate that helps your body to produce natural feel good chemicals, as well as helping your kidney and liver to push out toxins that are being stored in your bloodstream. These toxins are responsible for bringing down your mood, and giving you that depressed feeling that you feel all too often.
This depressed mood is caused by stress normally incurred in your day to day life, but then life tends to get rough, your brain automatically releases chemicals to try and calm you down. The thing about these chemicals is though, that they suppress your body, and your brain function, giving you that down mood that is all too common. When life gets you down like this though, reach over for a piece of Dove dark chocolate, it's going to do more than just fix your sweet tooth. The natural substances inside of dark chocolate help to push the toxins from your blood stream, as well as getting your brain to turn around, and start producing chemicals that are going to help you feel a lot better. This feel good chemical, serotonin, begins being released as soon as you swallow your first bite.
There are a few types of dark chocolate that are a bit healthier for you than the run of the mill sugar based type. The first being organic dark chocolate, usually fetches a little higher price tag at the market, or health food store, because of the way that the cocoa is grown, and the amount of work that really goes into producing an organic chocolate. The farmers will avoid using pesticides, herbicides, and growth hormones to keep the amount of chemicals found inside of their plants down, and while it hasn't been proven, there is logical reason saying that removing harmful pesticides from foods you eat, can't possibly hurt you.
Sugar free dark chocolate is another way to enjoy your favorite sweet tooth fix, but it does take a little bit longer for your brain to start releasing serotonin, because of the lack of sugar. Sugar tends to speed up your blood flow, and digestive system which explains why regular dark chocolate gives you the pick me up so much quicker.
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I notice that with most sweets, the more I eat the more I want and the worse I feel. So I switched to dark chocolate as my "sweet" of choice. It is not actually very sweet, and that is a big benefit. Because dark chocolate is low in sugar, it doesn't trigger my desire for more. I can be satisfied with a small amount without craving other sweets.
Dark chocolate has been recognized for a number of health benefits. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, a group of antioxidants naturally found in certain fruits, vegetables, teas, wines, nuts, seeds and roots. Flavonoids are thought to reduce the risk of blood clots and to increase the blood flow in arteries. Cocoa has been found to have nearly twice the antioxidants of red wine and up to three times those found in green tea.
Studies have demonstrated that even small amounts of dark chocolate has a modest effect on lowering blood pressure. Just 30 calories worth of dark chocolate lowered blood pressure an average of 2.9 millimeters of mercury for the systolic pressure (which is the first or top number). Chocolate also improves mood by boosting serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain.
This is all good, but there are limits. Chocolate is high fat and high calorie, so we still need to be moderate about how much we eat. One ounce (28.35 grams) is considered a reasonable size serving. That amount contains somewhere in the range of 135-150 calories. Because dark chocolate is so satisfying in small amounts, many people find that even a smaller quantity works. One square of my favorite is enough for me, and just 60 calories.
Cocoa beans naturally contain caffeine, and since dark chocolate contains higher levels of cocoa it often contains more caffeine then milk chocolate. A one ounce serving averages about 20 mg of caffeine. This is less than most caffeinated soft drinks (35 - 60 mg) or coffee (ave 130 mg); but it is enough caffeine that those who are sensitive may want to avoid dark chocolate close to bedtime.
When purchasing dark chocolate, look for something that has 70% or more cocoa. Also look for products made with cocoa butter instead of fats such as palm and coconut oils. Avoid 'hydrogenated' or partially hydrogenated' additives. In the US some companies reduce the amount of cocoa butter without using vegetable fats by adding polyglycerol polyricinoleate, which is an artificial castor oil-derived emulsifier that stimulates the mouthfeel of fat.
While dark chocolate generally has lower sugar levels than other forms of chocolate, the sugar content varies. A little market research I conducted revealed a range of sugar levels from a low of 3.5 grams of sugar per ounce (Lindt Extra Dark) to a high of 12.7 grams per ounce (Dove Dark). Regular chocolate has 16 grams/ounce (Hershey's). If you have trouble stopping after a small portion, try another brand with lower sugar content.
Because of the low sugar content, dark chocolate usually seems pretty bitter at first. It is something of an acquired taste - but I have known avowed milk-chocolate enthusiasts who have switched over in time. Try letting the chocolate melt in your mouth to get maximum satisfaction from the rich texture.
I frequently recommend dark chocolate because it gives us the sense of indulging and yet is easy to eat in small portions. Most sweets and desserts trigger us to crave more. Cutting out sweets can set us up for feeling deprived and over-indulging when we do have them. Dark chocolate is a great substitute. It allows a small pleasurable indulgence without triggering the sugar craving response, and it contains healthful flavonoids. Enjoy!
Kathy Nichols is the Healthy Habits Coach. As a registered dietitian and certified life coach, Kathy helps people who are tired of diets and feeling guilty find a way of eating that is sustainable, healthy and enjoyable. website: http://healthyhabitscoach.com blog: http://healthyhabitscoach.wordpress.com
In this article I will briefly and simply discuss the powerful health benefits of dark chocolate and how to choose the correct type by being aware of the ingredients.
At the end of this article you will be an 'mini expert'.
The powerful health benefits of dark chocolate is quite amazing. For starters it is believed a 40g bar of the dark stuff can contain double the amount of antioxidants than a glass of red wine. Chocolate and cocoa powder are derived from beans that are rich in natural antioxidants flavonoids called flavanols.
It's benefits have been linked to a lower risk of...heart disease, prostate cancer, lung cancer, asthma and type 2 diabetes. Oh, and you can ditch the aspirins too, as dark chocolate is believed to have a similar effect as aspirin.
So, how do you know if you are choosing the correct type of chocolate?
Here is a little guide to help you.
First rule, high cocoa content is the key here. You want less sugar and dairy fat. When looking at the labels on a bar, good dark chocolates will report their cocoa content by percent weight. You really want 70 per cent or higher. Remember it's the cocoa that contains the flavonols.
A general rule is that the higher the percentage of cocoa, the more bitter it will taste. But it is the bitterness that you want (not necessarily crave!), the more bitter, the more better it is for you. Don't worry, you will soon get used to, and appreciate, the richer taste of dark chocolate (and lack of sugar). Just think how healthy it is for you as you are munching away at it.
Small portions are all you really need to satisfy chocolate cravings. If you read the labels on chocolate, they can be confusing to say the least. However the first ingredient you need to be looking for should be cocoa.
Finally, on the powerful benefits of dark chocolate, studies have shown that it can also prevent blood from clotting, but watch how much you eat. Just a little warning...be aware that an ounce of it can contain up to a 11g of fat. So don't substitute it for a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits. Just be sensible....and definitely enjoy!!
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There is great news for everyone who loves chocolate, dark chocolate in particular. Research has shown a small amount eaten on a daily basis is actually good for your heart! It is important to note, only dark chocolate has been shown to provide health benefits of any kind. Milk, semi-sweet, white or any other kind of chocolate may taste good, perhaps even better, but they do not provide any known benefits.
Chocolate is made from plants and that means it contains some of the same various health benefits that dark vegetables have. Those advantages come from flavonoids that act as antioxidants. The antioxidants protect the body from aging that is caused by molecules produced through normal digestive processes, which cause the damage that leads to heart disease.
Dark Chocolate has a tremendous number of antioxidants. Manufacturers have learned how to make the product keeping up to 95% of flavonoids. The higher the level of those flavonoids, the more benefits the consumer will get from the chocolate. In fact, dark chocolate that is rich with flavonoids will elevate the blood levels of epicatechin that will allow the release of active substances which will improve blood flow in the artery. Improved blood flow is a great health benefit for the heart.
There are two health benefits in particular eating dark chocolate has for the heart. One is lower blood pressure and the other lower cholesterol. If eaten on a daily basis, it can reduce blood pressure in people who have high blood pressure and it also reduces LDL cholesterol, also known as the bad cholesterol, by up to 10 percent.
There are other health benefits to eating dark chocolate as well including stimulating endorphin production, producing a feeling of pleasure, it contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant, it contains other stimulants and it just tastes good.
This does not mean anyone should go on a dark chocolate eating binge. Chocolate of all kinds is loaded with calories and fat. It is recommended the consumer eat no more than 3.5 ounces a day to enjoy the heart and other health benefits dark chocolate offers.
It is strongly recommended anyone adding dark chocolate to their daily diet should look for pure dark chocolate, either plain or with nuts or any kind of flavoring. The consumer should avoid any kind of fillings, such as caramel or nougat, because the fillings add unneeded and unwanted sugar and fat which will keep you from getting the benefits.
It is also advised not to drink milk with your dark chocolate. Research has shown milk can prevent the antioxidants from being absorbed or used by the body.
Adam Leeds is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about heart benefits [http://hearthealthblog.info/heart-benefits-from-dark-chocolate/], please visit Heart Health Blog [http://hearthealthblog.info/] for current articles and discussions.
Food scientists all over the world suggest that dark chocolate contains all the necessary compounds and minerals to prevent major chronic heart conditions and disorders, most notably, cardiovascular disease. Derived from plants, it contains many of the health benefits of dark vegetables. A large number of antioxidants are contained in this semi-sweet substance (nearly 8 times the number found in strawberries) as well as more than 3 times the amount of catechins as that found in tea. The dark variety has far more antioxidants than white or milk chocolate.
Enriched with health compounds (medically known as flavonoids), it may also act as a traditional curative remedy for treating various body ailments. The flavonoids can help with your blood circulation in the same way that aspirin helps to reduce the likelihood of a blood clot. As a side note, the milk content of other chocolates can cause acne or "zits," but not dark chocolate.
The mood-enhancing qualities of chocolate are an obvious reason why it is so strongly associated with Valentine's Day, as a gift for lovers and loved ones. Benefits apart from protecting your heart include good taste that stimulates endorphin production which gives a feeling of pleasure. It contains serotonin, which may act as an anti-depressant, as well as theobromine, caffeine and other substances that are stimulants.
Remember, however, that overindulging in dark chocolate might blow your calorie budget, and packing on pounds could raise blood pressure. So portion control may help you have your indulgence while reaping its health benefits. From a healthy heart to young-looking skin to a happy mood, dark chocolate provides you with a number of benefits, provided you consume it in moderation. It is recommended by many studies that you eat an ounce a day.
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Many folks thoroughly enjoy a dark chocolate bar as opposed to a milk chocolate bar. However, there are also probably many more people that enjoy the milk chocolate instead too. This is probably due to the distinctly different taste that is somewhat more bitter and more prevalent in dark chocolate than in milk chocolate. Of course, the personal taste preference would also probably have something to do with this too. It is relatively doubtful that it is simply and primarily for the potential health benefits that are said to be distinct to dark chocolate and it is probably more aimed at the taste.
Dark chocolate has been studied for possible and potential health benefits that are closely related to the heart. It has been said that this is due to the flavoniods and their active ingredient epicatechin.
There was a study that was done by the University of California, San Francisco, School of Nursing in which the Dove Dark Chocolate was the primary study. The American Cocoa Research Institute provided these for this specific study. Some had these flavonoids and some had the flavonoids taken out. They used twenty one otherwise healthy people and split them into two groups. Each group would eat one point four ounces of this chocolate a day. The exception was that one group had flavonoids and one did not. After two weeks, these people were subjected to testing to explore their blood vessel dilation and found that the people that had the flavonoids had better blood flow and blood vessel function. These studies were published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition.
Does this prove anything about the dark chocolate bar? It may be that considering the extended amount of flavonoids that are in dark chocolate does aid in the prevention of blood clots which subsequently can lead to heart attacks. And, considering that the cocoa plant is just that, a plant, it may. Of course, by simply eating dark chocolate daily will not keep one healthy. One must also eat right as well as exercise in order to reap the benefits of a healthy regime. And, when doing this, one must certainly limit the amount of dark chocolate that they intake. Fore, any type of chocolate is loaded with fats and sugars as well as high in calories and large amounts will certainly defeat the purpose.
Therefore, keep in mind that this specific study only used one point four ounces of chocolate a day and limit yourself to that in order to have the potential benefits help. Also, when discussing the dark chocolate bar , a good talking point may be it seems to be the only candy bar that is actually good for you as well as your health. Find out more tips about dark chocolate bar at http://darkchocolate.bestreferenceguide.com
Everyone has been told at one time or another that they cannot have any more sweets or that they need to cut back on the chocolate. While it is true that nobody should make a diet out of bonbons and chocolate bars, chocolate is not as bad as some make it out to be. In fact, there are many health benefits to indulging in the occasional piece of dark chocolate.
A recent study shows that dark chocolate can be significant in helping to lower blood pressure. In this study, participants ate a 100-gram candy bar once a day for two weeks. As a result, their blood pressure dropped an average of five points for systolic blood pressure and two points for diastolic blood pressure.
Dark chocolate can also be beneficial because it is an excellent source of antioxidants, which can help prevent heart disease and other health issues. According to recent studies, milk can interfere with the absorption of antioxidants. This means that only dark chocolate has this benefit and that it should not be washed down with milk to get the full advantage.
Those who are planning on using the health benefits as an excuse to eat chocolate should keep a few things in mind. First, it is only dark chocolate that has these benefits, so eating milk or white chocolate will not produce the same results. In addition, doctors advise that someone who starts eating chocolate on a daily basis balance out the extra calories by eating less of other things in their diet.
Staying healthy has never tasted sweeter than when it is accomplished through eating dark chocolate. Low blood pressure and increased antioxidants are big steps on the way to helping anyone become healthier and more energetic. Be sure to speak with a doctor first, and then begin getting healthy with a tasty treat.
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We have known for a long time that you have to cut back on sweets if you want to lose weight, maintain a healthy heart and live as long as possible. Right? However, new evidence shows otherwise, at least where dark chocolates are concerned. It seems that high blood pressure and even heart disease may be helped by dark chocolate rather than exacerbated by it.
When reading this information don't let it go to your head too much. Yes, dark chocolates have been shown to be beneficial. But that doesn't mean you should eat too much of it or that you have free reign over white chocolate or even milk chocolate. It's dark chocolates we are talking about here.
In several studies dark chocolate has lowered high blood pressure in many participants. That is great news and while chocolate is enjoyable to eat it is also a lot healthier than prescription drugs. Remember, though, that you can't just eat all the chocolate you want. You can eat some and if you have mild high blood pressure and are of a certain age then the dark chocolate will more than likely help you. But, you must balance your caloric intake and know that if you are eating dark chocolate that you will need to cut calories elsewhere.
Believe it or not, but dark chocolate also has antioxidants. However, you must eat it alone. Don't accompany the dark chocolate with a big glass of milk or else you will eliminate the antioxidant effect. Antioxidants are great because they attack and eliminate free radicals, the culprits of many diseases including heart disease. A study with 13 individuals ages 55-64 who had mild high blood pressure took part in a study. Half were given a 100 gram dark chocolate candy bar and the other half a 100 gram white chocolate candy bar. They had to eliminate 480 other calories from their diet to make up for eating the chocolate. Over the course of the two week study the individuals who ate the dark chocolate saw a significant drop in their blood pressure. In fact, the average was five systolic points and two diastolic points.
The individuals who ate white chocolate did not see the same results. Another study used the same amount of people but in the 25-35 age range. They ate 100 grams of dark chocolate one day, 100 grams of dark chocolate with a small glass of milk another day, and finally 200 grams of milk chocolate. The study found that eating dark chocolate by itself results in the most total antioxidants in the blood. Many of us prefer milk chocolate to dark chocolate because it is smoother, sweeter and not as bitter. But, it is dark chocolate that makes the health difference and it is still sweet and good. So, why is dark chocolate the answer? It's because it contains cocoa phenols, which lower blood pressure. If you want to try this remedy then cut out bad things in your diet like colas, carnival foods, and the like to make up for the 500 plus calories in a bar of chocolate. Then you can have your chocolate and enjoy the cardiovascular benefits! Remember to take good care of your teeth as well when eating all that chocolate because tooth health has a direct connection to cardiovascular health. Now, go buy you some dark chocolate.
Caitlina Fuller is a freelance writer. In several studies dark chocolate has lowered high blood pressure in many participants. That is great news and while chocolate is enjoyable to eat it is also a lot healthier than prescription drugs. Remember, though, that you can't just eat all the chocolate you want. You can eat some and if you have mild high blood pressure and are of a certain age then the dark chocolate will more than likely help you. But, you must balance your caloric intake and know that if you are eating dark chocolate that you will need to cut calories elsewhere. If you want to try this remedy then cut out bad things in your diet like colas, carnival foods, and the like to make up for the 500 plus calories in a bar of chocolate.
Is dark chocolate really healthy for you? It's been advertised as being good for us, but it can be hard to tell what's real and what's not. If you're not sure whether the benefits you've heard about are really available from chocolate, here are some of the basics to help you decide.
Dark chocolate's primary benefit comes from flavonoids, a type of substance that falls under the umbrella of antioxidants. Many of the diseases we suffer from can be caused or aggravated by oxidant damage to our cells. Antioxidants can help reduce these problems, including some of the effects of aging, by preventing the completion of the oxidant reaction.
They capture damaging free radicals, and can be very beneficial to us. Some foods have more antioxidants than others. For instance, while they're present in strawberries, you'll find almost eight times as much of these chemicals in dark chocolate. Chocolate also has the ability to reduce blood pressure, since it contains nitric oxide, and may help with internal hormonal balances.
It's also been said that a small bar of chocolate daily can be good for your heart. That's because of the aforementioned blood pressure benefits, and also the fact that it can help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol as much as ten percent. Chocolate also stimulates the production of endorphins and serotonin, contains caffeine, theobromine and other stimulants, and tastes good. That means it has a lot of appeal.
The downsides are that it takes a lot of chocolate to have a big effect, and chocolate is a fairly fatty food. A third of the fats in chocolate are monounsaturated, and two thirds are saturated and able to affect your cholesterol. Another problem is that this high fat content, combined with the sugar in chocolate, means weight gain is a possibility if you eat too much.
Studies have used about three and a half ounces of dark chocolate each day to determine its benefits. That translates into about four hundred calories. While that might not sound like much, consider that it's the same as eating two small doughnuts, and that an extra four hundred calories per day could result in a gain of almost a pound a week.
That means that if you're eating a lot of chocolate to get its benefits, you'll need to increase your activity level and adjust your diet accordingly to avoid weight gain. To keep from eating too much, take the time to taste and appreciate chocolate every time your consume it. These health benefits are also available only from dark chocolate with sixty-five percent or higher levels of cocoa.
Milk chocolate has much lower cocoa content and can't offer those health benefits, and white chocolate contains no cocoa at all. Chocolate bars made of pure chocolate or chocolate with minimal flavorings are the best choice. Avoid nougat, caramel, and similar fillings, which can reduce the benefits chocolate is offering.
Chris loves to write about all kinds of food particularly chocolates. Find out more about Dark Chocolates by visiting http://www.ultimatechocolateshoppe.com
Medical science is actually telling us to eat dark chocolate for heart health. How is this possible? Up until now, we've always thought chocolate was bad for us!
It turns out that dark chocolate made from unprocessed cocoa, contains high amounts of flavonoids and phytochemicals. These are antioxidants found in nutritious foods like raisins, prunes, acai berries, and blueberries. Cocoa has from its origin an incredible high amount of these antioxidants and science has found a way by cold pressing the cocoa. And that's responsible for the benefits of dark chocolate for heart health.
It's not just hype by the chocolate manufacturers. Here are the results of just four scientific, placebo-controlled studies recently conducted by medical doctors and universities all over the world, to prove that we can eat dark chocolate for heart health without any guilt.
A study by the American College of Cardiology found that blood flow increased significantly in individuals who consumed cocoa for six weeks. They concluded that more studies need to be done to determine how much cocoa makes a difference. This is only one study that supports the idea that it's okay to eat dark chocolate for heart health.
In another study, forty-five borderline obese but otherwise healthy adults were given either cocoa or a placebo. Doctors measured their blood pressure both before and after, and found that those who ate the dark chocolate had better blood pressure. The benefits of dark chocolate for heart health are immediate.
The Journal of the American Medical Association has said that eating a reasonable amount of dark chocolate can lower your blood pressure enough to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by up to eight percent. When you add dark chocolate for heart health to all the other things you do, like getting enough exercise and eating a careful diet, it makes a difference.
A study conducted at the University Hospital of Cologne, Germany, looked at men and women with mildly elevated blood pressure. At the end of the study, those who consumed a small amount of healthy dark chocolate every day had lower blood pressure readings. Those who consumed white chocolate showed no change.
If you're pregnant or know someone who is, keep in mind that blood pressure rises during pregnancy. A little piece of dark healthy chocolate during pregnancy is a good thing, because it can help regulate blood pressure.
Drinking cocoa had the same effect as eating it, opening up a whole world of possibilities. You can get your healthy cocoa in many ways, dark chocolate for heart health is available in drinks, snacks and chunk form.
To learn more about dark chocolate for heart health, please visit Richard's Healthy Chocolate website. Author: Richard is passionate about sharing health and wellness with others. He also devotes the time, energy, and effort into his team and works with them to ensure their success.
Did you know that a benefit of dark chocolate is that it can help reduce insulin levels ? Unfortunately dark chocolate can be an acquired taste but for those suffering with diabetes it is well worth persevering as a benefit of dark chocolate is that it can counteract insulin resistance. But the really good news is that there is a new brand of chocolate on the market that has removed the usual bitter taste of dark chocolate thus producing an awesome tasting chocolate with huge health benefits. Yes, dark chocolate can now be viewed as a healthy food and used on a regular basis it has outstanding benefits especially for diabetes sufferers.
A benefit of dark chocolate is that due to its concentration of flavonoids it can can help in the battle against diabetes as it is rich in antioxidants. Which brings forth the question "what are antioxidants"?
Antioxidants are neutralizers of free radicals. Free radicals are simply explained as a phenomenon of today's living. Free radicals are a by product of breathing oxygen, they occur through general everyday pollution in the air, they are basically unavoidable in today's living environment. Molecules become damaged and split, the result being that the damaged molecule becomes a free radical. Environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and herbicides spawn free radicals.
It used to be that the body could handle free radicals, but as free radical production has become excessive, damage to the body is occurring. Of particular importance is that free radical damage accumulates with age. So the older we get the more susceptible we are to damage.
Why are antioxidants showing to be a benefit of dark chocolate and diabetes ? Cocoa powder is rich in flavonoids which in turn is rich in antioxidants and as such helps to counteract insulin resistance. Insulin resistance can be reversed by maintaining healthy weight, eating a good diet, exercising and stopping smoking. Those fabulous flavonoids help in keeping blood vessels healthy and they improve blood flow. That is extremely important for diabetics because they can develop circulation problems which can cause loss of extremities to occur.
Another amazing benefit of dark chocolate is that it is a terrific source of epicatechin. This compound is naturally occurring in cocoa powder that is used in commercially made chocolate, however, it is the main reason for the bitter taste, so commercial chocolate makers process this compound out to remove the taste problems. What this does in effect is to remove one of today's most beneficial compounds. Research at Harvard Medical School has doctors believing that epicatechin could potentially rid the western World of 4 major diseases, stroke, heart failure, cancer and type 2 diabetes.
This new chocolate, called Xocai, has developed a process of removing the bitter taste of epicatechin without removing any of the benefits. The result is a product laden with thousands of ORAC units. The ORAC scale was developed by the USDA to measure the amount of antioxidants in each fruit or vegetable. An optimal daily dosage is between 12,000 and 15,000 units. The average US diet contains 800 units. Now with Xocai chocolate all that is needed is 3 squares per day to provide the optimal recommended dosage. Those 3 squares a day only amount to 190 calories and just 8 grams of sugar, so it will not impact your calorie intake. Also Xocai chocolate suppresses craving so just another benefit of dark chocolate.
The alternative is you could eat 7 lbs of spinach or 13 lbs of red grapes or 52 lbs of tomatoes. There appears to be no contest!
This specially processed dark chocolate has helped people with diabetes, blood pressure, heart disease, fatigue, skin problems, gum disease, the list is endless. To learn more about 'Healthy Chocolate' please go to [http://www.healthychocolatiers.com] or email admin@healthychocolatiers.com
As the country becomes more and more health conscious and baby boomers populating the majority, we are finding several ways in which certain foods are absolutely beneficial to us. For many centuries people have known the health benefit of dark chocolate, but it seems as if the information is suddenly taking the world by storm with the incredible antioxidant claims. Could this be because baby boomers are looking to live longer or the fact that more and more people are looking for great tasting ways to help them trim their waist lines?
Whatever the case may be, the health benefit of dark chocolate is definitely making its way to the forefront and people are sitting up and taking notice. Dark chocolate has amazing ingredient properties and there are several studies which indicate dark chocolate lowers blood pressure and is beneficial for heart disease. Dark chocolate also has been shown to suppress appetite making it ideal for dieters trying to stave off the sugar cravings.
One of the most important properties in dark chocolate is flavonoids. Flavonoids provide protective benefits with its potent antioxidant power. Antioxidants help our cells resist damage of all those nasty free radicals roaming around in the body. There is no way to avoid free radicals as they are caused by environment and a major contributor to the way we age. Out bodies absolutely need adequate amount of antioxidants to lessen this damage, but the fact is that many people are not taking in near the recommended amount.
This is where dark chocolate comes in and can help many of us! Just about everyone loves chocolate. But before you go reaching for that candy bar, there is a particular kind of chocolate that is extremely beneficial, where others are not.
Most chocolate is processed and contains sugars and fats that are damaging to our bodies and the benefits are lost. Cocoa in its purest form is beneficial to us before it goes through chemical processes and all of its antioxidant qualities are removed. Milk chocolate and white chocolate are definitely out of the question and should be avoided if you are looking for health benefits.
Dark chocolate is the only form of chocolate that retains high levels of flavonoids, but most dark chocolate still contains sugars and fats, depleting the benefits. The absolute best form of dark chocolate with antioxidant benefits is in its purest form, completely unprocessed.
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You may have heard about Xocai Chocolate and are wondering what all the fuss is about. Before we take a look at the Xocai products, let us first take a look at dark chocolate itself.
Chocolate is everywhere in the news today. To prove my point, just do a Google search on "dark chocolate health" or "dark chocolate antioxidants" and you will see 1,000's of different websites talking about the benefits. For example, Time Magazine reported, "dark chocolate has been found to moderate blood pressure, and other ingredients elevate mood." US News stated, "new evidence suggests that a moderate amount of dark chocolate, particularly cocoa, may be sweet for the cardiovascular system."
The problem with most chocolates are the refined sugars, milk, hydrogenated oils, and other filler ingredients that are added to make it not so healthy.
There is a company by the name of MXI (Marketing Xocolate International) Corp. that has developed a healthy line of chocolate products. Xocai contains no refined sugars, no added fats, milk, or other filler ingredients. Xocai is made of 100% unprocessed cocoa powder.
Xocai is considered the only true healthy chocolate because of its patented cold pressing process. What this means is it is the only chocolate of its kind to not be heat manufactured. All chocolates found in the stores are heat manufactured and because of this fact, 80% or better of the antioxidants found in store bought chocolates are destroyed. Xocai products are all cold pressed so they retain 100% of the nutrients and antioxidants and with a whole lot less sugar.
As stated earlier, the studies coming out on the positive benefits of healthy dark chocolate are pretty remarkable. These studies include declines in high blood pressure, appetite suppression, mood elevation, and decreases in inflammation. Although not intended to cure all of your ailments, most people would welcome some positive side effects while enjoying a product that they already love.
Thankfully, there is a movement in today's society back to natural health, medicine, and diet. When you can consume a chocolate that does not contain all of the unhealthy ingredients that are in 99% of chocolates sold today, you'd be crazy to not try it.
While I was not a huge dark chocolate fan to begin with period, once you make the switch to unprocessed, healthy chocolate you'll never want to go back to the unhealthy, processed chocolates. There really is no comparison in taste, quality, and health benefits.
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Raw, dark chocolate has been known to have significant health benefits. Research studies continue to reveal that chocolate may hold clues to fighting more and more types of diseases. It is great news that the enjoyment and satisfaction of chocolate can be linked to healthiness and well-being. Here's how research involving chocolate consumption has been shown to benefit conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression and more.
Cancer and Heart Disease
Raw cacao and dark chocolate contain even greater amounts of the antioxidant compounds found in red wine or green tea. In protecting cells from toxins, as well as damaging and slowing the growth of cancer cells, antioxidants help reduce cancer risks and heart disease. The more cacao contained in chocolate, the more antioxidants it contains. Keep in mind that white chocolate does not contain antioxidants.
High Cholesterol
Despite being high in fats, studies have shown that chocolate consumption does not raise cholesterol, due to the type of saturated fat it contains. Less harmful saturated fats mean less harmful cholesterol and artery-clogging plaque. In fact, dark chocolate may help boost good cholesterol.
Mood
Consuming chocolate is thought to have an opiate effect on the body, possibly helping ease mood disorders. In addition, the fat contained in chocolate helps provide a feeling of satisfaction and pleasure, releasing endorphins that positively affect mood. Chocolate also may help cases of depression and soothe anxiety. Certain research study participants diagnosed with depression found relief from their depression when given dark chocolate.
High Blood Pressure and Circulation
Dark chocolate has been shown to help prevent blood platelets from aggregating, thus minimizing blood clots. In fact, one research study showed that consuming a small amount of dark chocolate each day slightly lowered blood pressure. This effect is due to the level of flavonoids in cacao that improve the level of protection against heart disease and encourage good circulation. Flavonoids tend to be lower in milk chocolate so stick with the dark. In addition, the Dutching process used in making cocoa powder also reduces flavanols, so look for naturally processed cocoa.
How Much Chocolate To Consume
To reap the possible health benefits, try adding 1 ounce of dark chocolate per day to your diet. Make sure there are no refined sugars or hydrogenated oils used in making the chocolate. There should also be a high cocoa percentage (70% or above) in the chocolate bar. Keep in mind that chocolate will add calories, so make dietary adjustments accordingly.
For more information on the health benefits of chocolate, visit Chocolate Is Healthy.
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The health benefits of dark chocolate are derived from flavonoids which are responsible for its anti-oxidant action. Anti-oxidants rid the body of free oxygen radicals floating around and burning up the body cells. These free radicals cause aging. It contains up to 8 times as much anti-oxidant than an equivalent of strawberries. Besides the removal of anti-oxidants, flavonoids help regulate the blood pressure by the production of nitric oxide. Dark chocolate has also been observed to reduce the amount of LDL(bad) cholesterol in the body by 10%.
Of the three types of fat in dark chocolate, two do not contribute to increasing the amount of dangerous cholesterol in your body, namely; oleic and stearic acid. Daily consumption recommended is only 100 grams to get the health benefits of dark chocolate. If you eat more than that, you must pay back the excess energy by eating less off other foods.
In addition to the health benefits of dark chocolate for the cardiovascular system, the hormones endorphine, serotonin and theobromine, which are derived from the chocolate, relieve depressed states, improve the congeniality and sexuality of persons. In this sense we can call chocolate a "social" food.
Some research has even been conducted to study possible health benefits of dark chocolate of curing malarial infections. The theory is based on the fact that malarial mosquitoes feed on blood fats and cholesterol. Chocolate, which adheres to cholesterol, may weaken the parasite.
The cocoa plant is a heritage from the Aztecs. Even during those ancient times, the health benefits of dark chocolate were not only believed in but chocolate was considered the food of the gods. The Aztecs believed that the cocoa plant was a gift to mankind from their god Quetzalcoatl. The dark unsweetened chocolate beverage that both the Mayans and the Aztecs partook of was called xocoatl. They believed that the drink could bestow wisdom and power, that it was nourishing, strengthening and had aphrodisiac qualities.
Since the Aztecs did not have sugar, other ways to enhance the flavor of xocoatl were used; spices, hot chili peppers and corn meal were added for flavor.
To avail of the health benefits of dark chocolate, take it in moderation. Stuffing yourself with chocolates is not a healthy habit. In particular, sweetened chocolates produce a lot of calories that can increase the fat retention in your body. The healthiest chocolates are those which contain plenty of flavonoids. Commercially sold chocolate bars, besides being sweetened, have varying contents of these substances.
Preparing your own chocolate at home from unsweetened raw cocoa powder will be the best way for you to take advantage of the health benefits of dark chocolate. Low-fat chocolate recipes are available on the internet. Cook chocolate with just a touch of sweetness to combat its naturally bitter taste. Additionally you can use dark brown sugar, molasses, to sweeten your chocolate dish. Brown sugars are known to be healthier to use than white sugar. This way, you can maximize the health benefits of dark chocolate that you are going to get.
Spencer Yurtt has developed the taste for a classic barber-style shave. Learning about and trying to achieve the perfect shave is a goal. Spencer has a site with reviews of Dovo straight razor, including a review on a how to shave with a straight razor.
Milk chocolate and dark chocolate differ in so many ways apart from how each tastes and the way they look. You can tell milk chocolate apart by its light brown shade and dark chocolate by its dark coffee colour. Other interesting differences include:
1) Calories: Which has more calories in your opinion? Did I hear you say milk? Get ready to be surprised. When 1 ounce of milk chocolate was compared to 1 oz of dark, it was found that the ounce of the dark variety had 7 calories more than its milky counterpart at 135 calories. This is obviously before adding any other specials like nuts or caramel. It's the reason why doctors warn not to overindulge with dark chocolate as the health benefits could be jeopardised by becoming overweight. It is advisable not to eat more than a square a day according to health practitioners. At most, 29g or about an ounce a day should be the rule of thumb.
2) Production: Basically, milk chocolate is made by adding milk to the dark chocolate formula. So, how does the milk variety end up with less calories. Well, not all the cocoa is used when making milk chocolate. Milk chocolate is generally made with only a maximum of 50% cocoa content whereas dark ones would contain from 55% cocoa content but most top range ones contain at least 70% cocoa.
3) Benefits: Dark chocolate has more health benefits than milk chocolate mainly because it contains more cocoa. However, if you're looking for health benefits you will need to avoid treats covered in marshmallow and caramel. The ideal when you plan to enjoy all the health giving properties is a plain dark chocolate bar. The high cocoa content means it contains antioxidants. When eaten as part of a healthy diet, dark chocolate has been proven to help reduce bad cholesterol levels, improve heart health and even improve blood sugar and insulin levels.
I would be interested to hear more interesting discoveries in the world of chocolate if you have any to share. Feel free to comment please.
Tola Popoola runs a personalised chocolates business, Chocolat A Toi. You can follow her work via her Blog.
The health benefits of dark chocolate have only recently made it into mainstream thinking. It shouldn't have really surprised anyone - chocolate comes from the seed of a tropical tree, which means it inherently has many of the health benefits of other plant-based foods.
Raw chocolate (or cacao) contains the highest levels of antioxidants of any food on earth, with a full spectrum of nutrients found naturally in different fruits and vegetables. However, most of the chocolate consumed in western cultures comes in the form of highly processed and refined milk chocolate. Milk chocolate (and white chocolate) do not have the benefits of raw chocolate.
Antioxidants, sometimes referred to as phytonutrients, protect the body from free radical damage and can help to prevent premature aging and chronic diseases.
Antioxidants are found in all fruits and vegetables, to some degree. Unfortunately, most people don't consume enough antioxidants in their diet to offset the harmful effects of free radicals. In addition, antioxidant levels in your body decline as you age. This combination places most individuals at an elevated risk for free radical damage and degenerative diseases.
Specific Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Dozens of clinical studies have been conducted to evaluate the health benefits of dark chocolate - and the results are overwhelmingly positive. These include benefits for your cardiovascular system, prevention of osteoporosis, cancer prevention, and improved mental alertness. Dark chocolate also possesses powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties.
Cardiovascular benefits. Dark chocolate contains important antioxidants called phenols. These natural compounds from the cocoa bean are known to increase nitric oxide, reduce platelet aggregation, and inhibit oxidation of LDL cholesterol. They can also decrease blood pressure, improve your cholesterol ratio, and increase your insulin sensitivity.
Relief from Inflammation. Flavonoid compounds in dark chocolate exert strong anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the same enzyme that is the target of over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
Prevention of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease where bone mineral density declines, which raises the risk for fractures. Women who consume greater amounts of antioxidants have higher bone mineral density levels than those who consume lower levels. This makes dark chocolate a great addition to the diet in anyone with low bone density or susceptibility to fracture.
Helps you stay focused and alert. Studies suggest that dark chocolate could be useful in enhancing brain function for people fighting fatigue and sleep deprivation. It also boosts blood flow to key areas of the brain for two to three hours, and may help to increase performance in tasks that require an alert mind.
Increased happiness. When chocolate is consumed, it triggers the production of endorphins in the body, which create a feeling of happiness. Eating chocolate won't cure clinical depression, but it might provide a quick hit of happiness.
Help with weight loss! Dark chocolate has appetite suppressant properties which help curb your cravings, and it only takes small amounts to enjoy these benefits. Studies show that eating just three-quarters of an ounce every 3 days lowers C-reactive protein levels, a strong marker of cardiovascular disease risk. This amount of chocolate adds only about 100 calories every 3 days to your diet.
How to Get the Benefits of Dark Chocolate
As mentioned above, the benefits of chocolate are only available from deep, dark varieties. Milk chocolate is a highly-processed food and has virtually none of the benefits of dark chocolate.
When you're choosing a chocolate bar, the higher percentage of cacao, the better. If you're accustomed to milk chocolate, you may want to start with a dark chocolate bar that's lower in cacao, and gradually switch to bars with a higher cacao content. Again, the higher the better.
Discover more Facts About Chocolate.
Stan Mrak has had a passion for antiaging nutrition and preventive health for over 30 years. Pay a visit to his website at http://www.antioxidants-for-health-and-longevity.com and discover more about the importance of antioxidants for staying young and preventing disease.
I love soft music. I love pretty women. But most of all, I love chocolate! Dark chocolate! This article will be good news for all devoted "choco-aholics" like myself. Guess what? Chocolate is good for you. But before you make a route to your nearest chocolate factory, you must know how much and what kind of chocolate to eat. I will also tell you of all of the stunning health benefits. In fact, in this article, I will show you the 5 amazing health benefits of eating daily dark chocolate. Taste buds ready? Let's go.
Dark Chocolate Not Milk Chocolate
All chocolates are not made equal. When it comes to the selection and consumption of the healthy variety, forget about milk chocolate; it is 85% sugar and only 15% cocoa. The secret is in the cocoa. The more cocoa you take percentage-wise, the more health benefits you will obtain. Dark chocolate can contain 60% to 80% cocoa. Now we're talking health benefits!
Flavonoids Is the Health Secret Ingredient Within The Cocoa
Flavonoids are a naturally occurring antioxidant (protector of cell tissue damage and deterioration) that is also found in green tea, red wine and some fruits like blueberries and pomegranates. The more flavonoids that you get into your body, the better.
The 5 Amazing Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Benefit # 1 - The Flavonoids Contained Have Been Shown Beneficial To the Cardiovascular System.
Benefit #2 - Recent Studies Have Shown A Square (6 Grams) Daily Lowered Blood Pressure By Two Points.
Benefit #3 - Daily Dark Chocolate Has Shown To Low LDL "Bad" Cholesterol by About 5 Points.
Benefit #4 - Flavonoids Prevent the Lining of Blood Vessels from Cracking and Becoming Inflamed.
Benefit # 5 - The Anti-Oxidants of the Flavonoids Prevent Tissue and Cell Degeneration.
How Many Squares of Dark Chocolate Should You Eat
Though we are talking about a lot of health benefits, you still need to be careful not to overdo it. You still can get fat by eating too much, and that certainly is not beneficial to your health. One or two squares is about the most that you should eat per day. One square is about 30 calories, but keep in mind also that it has a high fat percentage as well. There's no need to eat the entire bar (or platform). You will gain plenty of health benefits from a square or two.
What Percentage of Cocoa Should Eat Square Contain
I recommend at least 60%. 72% is better. 80% is the best, though the least sweet. My favorite is 72% - not too sweet, not too bitter. Also, one last tip, there is no need to buy the priciest brands. Very high-quality dark chocolate bars are available for $2 to $4 each.
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