As a woman chocolate is a vital part of my life, I’m not saying that chocolate has to be restricted to the female race but I get a bit fed up sometimes of being told that chocolate is BAD for me. On the whole woman do put a great deal of emphasis on healthy eating, but when it comes to chocolate now that’s a different story.

Choccie Vitals

Cocoa plants grow in warm, tropical climates. As a result the hearty cocoa bean which is also known as cacao has developed the ability to protect itself from the harsh environment by producing natural chemicals by the name of, yes you’ve guessed it “antioxidants”. When we eat chocolate, (now we are talking about the good stuff here, not the imitation highly refined sugar loaded trash nicknamed chocolate) our body gets the benefits of all the natural antioxidants called “flavanoids”. Now flavanoids have been shown to protect the body from the damage that causes heart disease, cancer and even general aging, isn’t that enough to get you eating?

Chocolate, so good for you.

Even though chocolate is said to be a treat that should be eaten in moderation there have been a number of research studies pointing to the positive benefits of cocoa and cocoa products:

• A study in Spain reported that cocoa contained more than 600 chemicals that may help fight cancer and heart disease and could also help strengthen the immune system, fight rheumatism, and alleviate stress.

• The flavanoids in chocolate help reduce the incidence of blood clotting, a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.

• Subjects who drank a cocoa rich drink showed signs of smoother more glowing skin

• Research indicates that cocoa is more effective at lowering blood pressure than tea (another great source of antioxidants)

Chocolate’s Feel Good Effects

For many people the love of chocolate is more than just an appreciation for its sweet taste. Researchers have actually determined that there are chemicals in chocolate that can elevate mood. One chemical, phenylethylamine (PEA) is even linked to the feeling of falling in love. Could it be true that we really do LOVE chocolate? Many women would agree, especially when experiencing PMS.

Chocolate Facts

The average American consumes roughly 11.5 pounds of chocolate annually

The medicinal use of chocolate, both as a primary remedy and as a vehicle to deliver other medicines, originated in the New World and diffused to Europe in the mid 1500s

The main ingredients in chocolate are; chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, sugar, and milk (only in milk chocolate).

% Cacao is a term often used on chocolate products that indicates the percentage of ingredients that come from the cocoa bean (i.e. chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, and cocoa powder)

Chocolate is vegetarian-friendly and dark chocolates are often vegan-friendly

Chocolate Quotes

I never met a chocolate I didn’t like. 
— Deanna Troi in Star Trek: The Next Generation

All I really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt! — Lucy Van Pelt (in Peanuts, by Charles M. Schulz)

Make a list of important things to do today. At the top of your list, put “eat chocolate.” Now, you’ll get at least one thing done today. 
— Believed to be from Gina Hayes

I have this theory that chocolate slows down the aging process…. It may not be true, but do I dare take the chance? 
— Unknown

Chocolate is cheaper than therapy and you don’t need 
an appointment….
— Anonymous

There’s more to life than chocolate, but not right now….
— Anonymous

After about 20 years of marriage, I’m finally starting to scratch the surface of what women want. And I think the answer lies somewhere between conversation and chocolate.
— Mel Gibson

Chocolate is the greatest gift to women ever created, next to the likes of Paul Newman and Gene Kelly. It’s something that should be had on a daily basis.
— Sandra Bullock

I probably have some sort of chocolate five times a week. There’s definitely a change it does to the chemistry of the body. It’s my favorite feeling. I live for it.
— John Travolta

Fact: Fourteen out of every ten people like chocolate.
— Anonymous

I could give up chocolate but I’m no quitter.
— Anonymous

And finally a food porn moment, enjoy…..

. Thank you www.adoracalcium.com for help with these wonderful facts.