The unknown benefits of eating chocolate BY Amit Kothiyal

Chocolate is such a food that that nobody can deny liking it. It is found in nearly every kind of dessert, toffee and packaged food products. Chocolate has become such a favorite food universally, that people of most cultures around the world find this amazing coca bean simply irresistible. Despite its fantastic flavor, texture, aroma and uplifting effects on human senses, chocolate has found criticism for being a bad influence on health.
Health benefits of chocolate are aplenty, but only when consumed in a pure form with minimal processing. Natural chocolate is known to contain nutritional qualities and health benefits just like any other food with minimal processing does. To reap the positive returns of chocolate it is therefore better that you eat high quality chocolate and try to avoid (or eat in moderation) pastries, cakes and other chocolate products that contain processed chocolate. Low quality chocolate bars & refined desserts that use chocolate as an ingredient are not considered as a health food and are not good for you if you want to maintain a physically fit body.
Some of the unknown benefits of eating chocolate are:

• Chocolates are high in Antioxidants - Chocolates are one of the highest sources of antioxidant amongst all known foods. It helps to counter the effects of dangerous free radicals on human body.
• Chocolates make you feel good – Chocolates release neurotransmitters and phyto-chemicals in human body which are responsible for elevating your mood.
• Chocolates are good for the Heart – Contrary to common belief Chocolates do not raise cholesterol level in humans rather it controls the heart. The combination of Anadamide, Trypotophan, Serotonin and Phenylethylamine (PEA) compounds in chocolate gives one a good feel. In addition to this chocolates also contain Theobromine, which is responsible for dilation of the blood and cardiovascular system in humans.
• Chocolates energizes - Cocoa contains minor amounts of caffeine which energizes us. Additionally, raw chocolate is also known to be an excellent source for herbs and other nutrients which when blended into a shake or drink is excellent for us.
• Chocolates contain high amount of Magnesium – Magnesium is usually deficient in most of us. Eating chocolates negates that deficiency!
• Chocolates are high in other nutrients - Cocoa contains a number of nutrients like Iron, Vit C, Zinc, Copper, Chromium and Manganese. It is also high in fiber and Omega fatty acids.

When you consume high quality chocolate that is close to its pure state, you will usually notice that you only eat a small amount. This is mainly because your body is nutritionally satisfied and this fills you up. You don't overindulge! The cause of most food related health problems is usually because of over eating a particular kind of food. Therefore, eat chocolate but consume it in its most pure form. Be careful like any other food not to overindulge in it especially when you know that other decadent ingredients are involved.


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