by Sabrina Giancioppi

No matter the kind: Sweet, bitter, bold, rich, smooth, or aromatic, chocolate has had the power to melt in our mouths and warm our hearts on any occasion. Who doesn’t like to self-indulgence in a piece of delicious chocolate from time to time? Imagine treating yourself to a piece of Godiva, making some warm cocoa, or dipping a strawberry in melted dark Lindor, without that inner voice whispering about diet and weight. The bittersweet feeling of eating chocolate can turn to just sweet because chocolate proves to be a healthy snack! Here are a few of chocolate’s health benefits…

According to Dr. Mark Stibich’s article of About.com: Health Disease and Condition content , “Chocolate is made from plants, which means it contains many of the health benefits of dark vegetable.” While not all chocolate is healthy, dark chocolate is a treat that Dr. Stibich does suggest because it contains the most antioxidants, and this effectively helps lower blood pressure, reduce LDL cholesterol and improve our cardiovascular system.

Milk chocolate, although it contains more sugar and unsaturated fats, is most popular and less costly. There are also chocolate lovers who find dark cocoa too bitter. Although I am an avid milk chocolate eater myself, I have found the secret in Lindor’s Dark Chocolate and highly recommend it for those wishing to transition to dark chocolate. It is slightly less bitter and rich, giving milk chocolate lovers to still enjoy it while gaining the health benefits of chocolate.

Some familiar benefits:
- it stimulates endorphin production, which gives a feeling of pleasure;
- it contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant;
- it contains theobromine, caffeine and other substances which are stimulants.

Some other interesting benefits:
- Cacao, the source of chocolate, contains antibacterial agents that fight tooth decay;
- The smell of chocolate may increase brain waves resulting in relaxation;
- The carbohydrates in chocolate raise serotonin levels in the brain, resulting in a sense of well-being.

Who would have thought that eating chocolate could become any more enjoyable? Making chocolate a part of your diet would be a health conscious decision. Moderation is important to keep in mind and I would suggest to stay away from chocolate candy bars; however it’s great to not have to feel guilty after treating yourself to a piece of yummy and delicious chocolate every once and a while.

This Valentine’s Day, don’t hide the box of chocolates, but do yourself the favour and enjoy every bite!

Sabrina Giancioppi
Concordia University Student
Findsalonspa.com Blogger