Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

-The health benefits of chocolate stem from the antioxidant compounds found within the cocoa beans.

-Hence the attraction of dark chocolate over milk chocolate because it contains a higher percentage (usually 70%) of cocoa.

What are antioxidants?

Cocoa contains antioxidants such as 'Flavanoids', these are substances which help protect the body from damage caused by 'free radicals'.

It is this damage which causes ageing, and is a major contributor to diseases such as cancer, heart disease and declines in the immune and brain functions.

Free radicals

These are groups of molecules formed by exposure to oxygen (oxidation). They then become unstable, interact with and damage cells within our bodies.  

Antioxidants deactivate and eliminate these destructive molecules before they can attack the cells, they are essentially guardians of our bodies. Without them, free radicals accumulate and weaken our bodies.

Antioxidants can also be found in red wines, green tea, blueberries and various vegetables.

Milk Vs Dark Chocolate

The underlying problem with milk chocolate is that the milk interferes with the absorption of antioxidants, potentially nullifying the benefits from eating chocolate. Research suggests that milk proteins bind and block the body's absorption of antioxidant. One must therefore avoid consuming dark chocolate with a glass of milk. And as for white chocolate, I would avoid it because the processing method removes all of the antioxidant benefits.

Raw Vs Processed

The manufacturing process of heating cacao beans at high temperature destroys most of the antioxidants and minerals. It is therefore much healthier to eat the raw cacao (cocoa) bean rather than the refined product.

However because natural coca contains such a high levels of antioxidants, destroying even 75% of these will still leave it with higher amounts compared to other antioxidant rich foods. According to Rob Horn from livestrong, cocoa is the world's leading antioxidant-rich food, containing 15 times more antioxidants than blueberries.

Health Benefits

- It reduces your blood pressure and lowers your cholesterol (it reduces the bad cholesterol - LDL).

-It contains theobromine - a mood enhancing compound which dilates the blood vessels.

-Contains Flavanoids, an antioxidant (anti-inflammatory substance) which promotes a healthy cardiovascular system and shields the body against toxins (free radicals).

-Its highly rich source of magnesium - for healthy bones, teeth and relaxation of blood vessels.

-Rich source of Sulphur - Helps build strong nails, hair and beautiful skin.

-Stimulates the release of love chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin. These cause feelings of euphoria, sexual desire and peacefulness.

How much Dark Chocolate

According to Mayaclinic, eating one square a day will provide you with the benefits without gaining weight.

Controversy surrounding Theobromine

Theobromine Alkaloid is only harmful to animals (particularly dogs) as their bodies are less adept at metabolizing this compound than humans. Of course anything is poisonous in large enough quantities - for example alcohol contains ethanol, a poison in its own right.

The Royal Society of Chemistry piece on Theobromine.