If you\u2019re anything like me, you have a sweet-tooth.<\/p>\n
There are days I simply cannot resist the confectionary aisle at the supermarket, knowing full-well that I only came for milk and bread.<\/p>\n
In an attempt to justify my chocoholic behaviour, I have come across a recent Harvard study which bodes well for my fellow chocolate lovers.<\/p>\n
This study adds to the ever-growing research into the numerous health benefits of flavonoids – an antioxidant compound found in cocoa solids.<\/p>\n
The study suggests that regular consumption of dark chocolate containing 60 to 70 percent cacao improves several cardiovascular risk factors, and likely reduces the overall risk of cardiovascular disease.<\/p>\n
The high percentage of flavonoids found in dark chocolate causes dilation of blood vessels, effectively lowering blood pressure.<\/p>\n
The study also concluded that dark chocolate increased insulin sensitivity, potentially lowering the risk of diabetes; and may even impact cholesterol, slightly decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol while
\nincreasing HDL (good) cholesterol.<\/p>\n
Obviously, the idea of chocolate as medicine is appealing.<\/p>\n
But, it is possible to have too much of a good thing.<\/p>\n
Commercial processing as well as the process of adding sugar in the average dark chocolate bar can counteract a large portion of its benefits.<\/p>\n
Over consumption, and added sugar can contribute to weight gain, ultimately increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.<\/p>\n
As with all things, the best advice is moderation.<\/p>\n
Choosing a chocolate containing at least 70 per cent cocoa with as little added sugar as possible is your best bet.<\/p>\n
A daily serving of one ounce, or roughly four squares of your favourite chocolate block will pack the highest concentration of health-benefiting flavonoids.<\/p>\n
So, do yourself a favour, and satisfy that sweet-tooth with a few squares of 70 percent dark chocolate.<\/p>\n
Dr Candice Tandy is an osteopath at The Health Creation Centre in Ocean Grove.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
If you\u2019re anything like me, you have a sweet-tooth. There are days I simply cannot resist the confectionary aisle at the supermarket, knowing full-well that I only came for milk and bread. In an attempt to justify my chocoholic behaviour, I have come across a recent Harvard study which bodes well for my fellow chocolate […]<\/p>\n