Chocolate is a delicious food product mad from the beans of the Theobroma Cacao tree. The beans
are harvested, fermented, dried, roasted and then grinded. At the end of this process the resultant paste is
sometimes then combined with componenets such as sugar and sometimes milk to produce what we call Cocolate. it
can be eaten as a solid block as this is the widely produced form or as a liquid.
Pro's and Con's
Pro's
Antioxident Properties:
Dark chocolate is loaded with organic compounds that are biologically
active and function as antioxidants. These include
polyphenols, flavanols and catechins, among others. According to research, the polyphenols in dark chocolate
may help
lower some forms of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol when combined with other foods like almonds and cocoa
Mood Enhancement:
chocolate releases endorphins into the brain and endorphins make us happy,
they also decrease stress and pain levels.
Nutrient Content:
quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, it contains a decent amount
of soluble fiber and is loaded with minerals. Eating dark chocolate supplemented with the flavanol lycopene
was found to significantly decrease levels of total
cholesterol.
Cardiovascular Benefits:
May improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.Research shows a
reduction in heart disease risk among those who consume a moderate amount of chocolate.
Con's
High Calorie and Sugar Content:
Chocolate can be high in calories and sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk
of obesity and related
health issues.
Potential For Addiction:
Eating chocolate increases levels of enkephalin, resulting in the need to consume more chocolates.
Another reason behind chocolate’s addictive potential is a stimulating chemical called theobromine.
Theobromine, when
combined with caffeine, has positive effects on a person’s mood and also causes an aphrodisiac boost.
Allergies and Intolerances:
Chocolate contains compounds like theobromine, which can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals,
leading to
symptoms such as hives, itching, or swelling.
Dental Health:
Many chocolate products contain added sugars, which can lead to dental problems like cavities and tooth
decay
Caffiene Content:
Dark chocolate contains caffeine, which can cause issues for individuals sensitive to caffeine or when
consumed in large
amounts
