There’s a relatively new nutritional item in town and it really does sound good! This “new” item has just recently been added to the goodies of healthy eating.

Nutritionists claim that a serving of this “new” substance has more antioxidant capacity than blueberries or blueberries. In fact, this substance can slow down the accumulation of dental plaque and its properties do not end there.

Research has determined that this “new” nutritional product has its effects on the cardiovascular system by making the arteries more elastic, ie. flexible.

By now, you are beginning to wonder what this “new” substance is? Believe it or not, it is none other than our old friend, chocolate!
Chocolate has gotten such a bad rap over the years that it’s about time we gave it its due respect.

For a long time it was believed that chocolates were one of the many things we eat that caused some damage to our bodies.
While all along, cocoa and dark chocolate packed a powerful antioxidant punch. Playing a role in helping our bodies stay healthy.

There are a number of myths regarding chocolate that we will try to eliminate. Keep in mind that sometimes old beliefs are hard to let go of, despite good research and studies.

Myth number 1: Chocolate will cause tooth decay (caries).

False: Chocolates contain flavonoid antioxidants, this substance along with others actually slow down the development of dental plaque.

Myth number 2: Chocolates cause acne.

False: Despite numerous studies, including the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association and its British counterpart, it appears that large amounts of chocolate have not caused an increase in acne severity.

Myth number 3: Chocolate allergies are common.

False: More American adults and children have a diagnosed food allergy, with more than 90 percent allergic to things like nuts, eggs, milk, shellfish, etc. Therefore, food allergies to chocolate are rare. Remember, only one to two percent of adults have a food allergy and five to eight percent of children. However, one or more of the food types listed could be present in a chocolate product, so it’s wise to read labels very carefully.

So the next time you have an appetite for a chocolate treat. Relax, as in all things, in moderation chocolate, cakes and cookies are delicacies that can also be healthy. Enjoy!