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Researchers have found some intriguing and wonderful health benefits of dark chocolate, which may encourage consumption of this wonderful product. These benefits are for dark chocolate, and the darker, the better. So the more cocoa (the higher percentage), the more health benefits you will gain. Most people can't tolerate the 100% cocoa for its extreme bitterness, but at the 70-80% levels, after acquiring the taste, you can begin to enjoy the numerous health benefits. In fact, you may come to prefer the higher cocoa percentages, as you acquire the taste for cocoa.

HEALTH BENEFITS FOUND THROUGH RESEARCH

* Acts as an appetite suppressant. Two research studies conducted at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, found 1) that consumption in moderate amounts reduces cravings for salty, sweat, and other foods, and 2) that eating a meal after consuming dark chocolate 2.5 hours previously, the caloric consumption is reduced by 15%. [Check out the website scientistlive.com for more information about their research.]

* Lowers bad cholesterol by up to 10%.

* Can lower blood pressure. According to JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) in August 2003 [The website webmd has a lot of health information.], eating a moderate amount each day can lower blood pressure because elements of the dark chocolate relax the blood vessels, making blood flow more easily.

* Contains many antioxidants. Antioxidants destroy free radicals in the body, protecting the body from aging and other ailments.

* Offers a lower glycemic index. It offers the same glycemic index as oatmeal, so it won't spike your blood sugar and let you crash later.

* Because it stimulates endorphin production and contains serotonin, you simply feel better after eating it. And it contains caffeine and other stimulants, so you're up as well.

Adding dark chocolate to your diet, if done in moderation, can add health benefits to your life. Balance its addition with a decrease in other caloric vices.

Katherine Ploeger, MA, MFA, is a full time writer, writing coach & consultant (see http://ploegerservices.com ). She's also a convert to dark chocolate after years (and tons) of milk chocolate, without any health benefits at all. She has written other articles and reviews of these products on http://darkchocolateorganic.com to help with buying decisions.