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In the News - February 2010
Something good may also be good for you!
PINE BLUFF, Ark. - At last, something that tastes good may also be good for
you. What is it? Chocolate! Those fortunate to receive chocolates for
Valentine's Day can enjoy them without guilt, especially if the chocolate is
dark.
Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids which are also found in cranberries,
apples, peanuts, onions, tea and red wine, says Dr. Therthenia Lewis, Extension
nutrition specialist with the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Cooperative
Extension Program.
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants. "When we eat plant-based foods rich in
flavonoids, we benefit from their antioxidants," says Dr. Lewis. According to
the Cleveland Clinic, when our bodies lack adequate levels of antioxidants, free
radical damage can develop, leading to increases in LDL (bad cholesterol),
cholesterol oxidation and plaque formation on arterial walls.
Chocolate also contains trace amounts of essential elements and vitamins such
as potassium, magnesium, B1, B2, D and E. And, chocolate contains serotonin,
which acts as an anti-depressant.
"This does not mean that we should go hog wild and eat as much chocolate as
we want," says Dr. Lewis, as "research on chocolate is ongoing." But, she has
these suggestions for chocolate fans.
Be selective of the type of chocolate you choose. Research at the Cleveland
Clinic in 2009 suggests that dark chocolate is thought to retain the highest
level of flavonoids, so select dark chocolate over milk chocolate. And,
researchers at Harvard Medical School recommend choosing dark chocolate that
lists the first ingredient as cocoa or chocolate liquor, not sugar.
Dr. Lewis cautions that chocolate is not without calories. Dark chocolate is
high in fat and sugar content, therefore it is fattening. A standard dark mini
chocolate kiss is one ounce and contains about 20 calories.
So, if you enjoy chocolate, don't be bashful, request and enjoy dark
chocolate this Valentine's Day.
February 5, 2010
By Carol Sanders
Writer/editor
UAPB School of Agriculture
Fisheries and Human Sciences
(870) 575-7238
sanders_c@uapb.edu
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