Chocolate is good for you? Too good to be true?

Well yes and no.  First, you need to understand that there is a world of difference between cacao—pure chocolate from the cocoa plant--and “chocolate” products.  Many chocolate products are “chocolate-flavored” products which do not have any health benefits, and in fact, some have so much sugar, preservatives, and other processed ingredients that contribute to many health problems.


The health benefits of chocolate come from cacao.  Cacao comes from the beans of the cacao plant that are fermented, dried, and roasted.  Most high-quality dark chocolates contain cacao.  Look for chocolates with higher percentages of cacao, at least 70% or up, without fillers like soy lecithin.   Roasted cacao beans can sometimes be purchased as nibs, which may taste bitter, but can add a wonderful taste to dishes and your breakfast cereal.  Or even better, you can buy nuts and snacks made with raw cacao in organic grocers and health food stores.


Studies have shown that cacao is high in antioxidants and has a beneficial effect on blood pressure.  It also has other benefits, such as reducing LDL--the bad cholesterol.  Cacao has also been shown to reduce blood clotting, and additional studies have linked chocolate consumption to fewer heart problems and lower risk of mortality.


So go ahead, splurge, but splurge on the good stuff.