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spring | 2008

ChocolateHealth Benefits of Chocolate

Many women don’t consider chocolate a part of a wellrounded diet. However, this “decadent” treat may have benefits beyond simply tasting good.

The Goods

Evidence shows that a few chocolates may have some of the same diseasefighting antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, red wine, and soy products.

Antioxidants come from plant-based foods. As natural byproducts of the cocoa bean, both chocolate and cocoa contain high concentrations of antioxidants. These include:

  • Polyphenols. Found in highest amounts in dark chocolate, as well as in milk chocolate and cocoa, polyphenols may help ward off cancer.
  • Flavonoids. Women who had 4½ tablespoons of cocoa powder and about half an ounce of dark chocolate daily for a month had higher HDL, or “good,” cholesterol levels compared to when they didn’t eat it. HDL protects the heart by carrying excess cholesterol away from the arteries.
Also, chocolate may not raise LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol as much as meat and high-fat dairy products. Why? Chocolate—all kinds—contains cocoa butter. Though still a saturated fat, this butter isn’t easily absorbed by women’s bodies.

Here Are Healthy Ways to Enjoy Chocolate:

  • Use cocoa powder instead of chocolate in recipes.
  • Opt for miniature chocolate bars or chocolate chips instead of full-size candy bars to satisfy cravings.