Chocolates Nutrients

Chocolate's Nutrients

                    
Every now and again you will meet someone who will frown at the mention of eating chocolate. They may appear to be to be committed to some kind of resolution to avoid it at all costs. This may well be the price they have chosen to pay, for an over indulgence of a wonderful treat that unfortunately is often high in fat and sugar, and we all understand the importance of balancing our nutritional intake with the appropriate amount of physical activity. That said; it's a little unfair that the most popular confectionary flavor in the world should be tarnished with the label of being unhealthy.

The fact is; chocolate contains a great number of components with known associated health benefits, compounded by the neural stimulation and resultant feelings of well-being that's its consumers may experience. Cocoa is known to contain high levels of antioxidants in the form of flavonoids. Flavonoids are naturally produced in cacao, as well as fruits, vegetables and red wine. They are thought to be especially beneficial to the cardiovascular system. Antioxidants are also believed to assist in cell preservation and retarding the ageing process.
 
Although sixty percent of the fatty acids in cocoa are saturated (35% Stearic and 25% Palmlitic) the evidence suggests that they do not raise harmful cholesterol levels.
 
The emotional and physical lift, sometimes experienced when eating chocolate is grounded in some scientific knowledge. Cocoa and chocolate contain serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain, the absence of which, appears to have a definite correlation with depression. Also present, is another anti-depressant phenylethylamine, which is similar to the body's naturally occurring adrenaline and dopamine. Chocolate also contains a small amount of cafiene. 
 
Chocolate  contains a number of vitamins and minerals. Dark chocolate can contain noticeable quantities of the following:
 
Vitamin B1: Assists the nervous system, muscles, heart and nerve repair.
 
Vitamin B2: Assists growth, hair, nails and the synthesis of proteins and
carbohydrates.
 
Vitamin B3: Helps the blood circulatory system and aspects of the digestive process.
 
Vitamin B5: Significant to the immune system and cell regeneration.
 
Magnesium: Helps in the conversion of food to energy, the strengthening of teeth and
bones and body temperature regulation.
 
Iron: Assists the production of red blood cells it is also significant to the maintenance
of white blood cells and the immune system.
 
Phosphorus: Assists the energy production process and is important to a range of vital
enzymes.
 
Zinc: Helps in the breaking down of proteins and carbohydrates and is valuable to the
immune system.
 
Manganese: Promotes healthy bones, nerves, muscles, and the control of growth.
 
Milk Chocolate can also contain the following: Vitamin A. Important to the
maintenance of eyesight and growth.
 
Vitamin D: For the cultivation of healthy bones and teeth.
 
Vitamin E: Valuable in the fight against toxins, and a noted antioxidant.
 
Calcium: Needed for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth,
muscular activity and blood clotting.
 
Phosphorus. (As above).
 
Now, despite these elements being of definite value to the body for all the factors previously stated; one wouldn't expect a bowl of chocolates to be healthier than a bowl of vegetables. Nevertheless, if we continue to enjoy our most popular treat while exercising some measure of responsibility, then I see no good reason for feeling guilty or indulgent. Good quality of life is paramount, and for me that will most certainly involve good chocolate and the higher the standard of chocolate, the greater the pleasure. Hey! I'm feeling better already...

© Lloyd Gordon/Chocolatetray.com