Features : Five ways to enjoy benefits of chocolate : Sidney Herald, Sidney, Montana

Five ways to enjoy benefits of chocolate

Published on Friday, February 5, 2010 5:19 PM MST

Oh chocolate – loved and feared so much that some people refer to themselves as chocoholics! Whether you enjoy chocolate for its fabulous flavors and mouth feel or for its health benefits, it is important to realize that more isn’t necessarily better. Keep these tips in mind to get the most out of any chocolate experience.

1) Go to the dark side of the chocolate aisle.

It’s all about the flavonoids, antioxidant compounds that can help your heart in several ways, including lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels. There are more flavonoids in dark and baking chocolate than in milk or Dutch chocolate. Some products now list the amount of cacao on the package. Higher percentages are better.

2) Enjoy chocolate after a balanced meal.

While the health benefits of flavonoids are real, no chocolate product is nutrient-rich. Chocolate is not a good protein source like lean meats nor is it packed with vitamins and minerals like fruits, veggies, whole grains and low-fat dairy foods. Your best bet is to enjoy chocolate after a meal that includes something from each of those food groups.

3) Be size-wise about chocolate servings.

Many studies have concluded that a piece of dark chocolate a day – a very small piece – can help keep the doctor away. No matter how dark the chocolate, a king-size candy bar is not a smart choice, because it is high in calories, fat and sugar. Look for small, individual portions (about 1/4 oz. each) or divide a large bar into very small pieces.

4) Combine chocolate with fruit and nuts.

Here’s a heart-smart way to have your chocolate and multiply your health benefits too! Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of dark chocolate with nutrient-rich fruits (blueberries, strawberries or pears, for example) and nuts (like almonds or peanuts). Create these combos in desserts or make a snack mix with dried fruit, nuts and dark chocolate bits.

5) Savor every chocolate bite completely.

When we slow down and truly savor our meals and snacks, we can be satisfied with smaller quantities. When it comes to eating, enjoyment involves several senses: smelling aromas, feeling textures, and tasting the wide variety of flavors. When we give chocolate the attention it deserves, that very small piece can be just the right size!

Print this story Post A Comment

Comments

The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the view of the Sidney Herald.

WRITE A COMMENT

Comments Policy:

All comments transmitted through, or linked from the site, are the sole responsibility of the person from whom such content originated. www.sidneyherald.com encourages our readers to engage in civil discussions about issues. We encourage a collegial, non-insulting tone. Comments that are submitted are not posted to the site immediately, but are reviewed by Herald staff. The Herald cannot edit or change your submissions.

DO NOT POST:
* Potentially libelous statements or damaging innuendo.
* Obscene, explicit, or racist language.
* Personal attacks, insults or threats.
* The use of another person's real name to disguise your identity.
* Comments unrelated to the story.

NOTE: Comments are limited to 250 Words.

There are some exceptions to the above rules when public figures are involved. We define public figures as individuals who work in the public’s eye and/or are candidates for public office and/or their position is paid with tax dollars.

Thank you for your comments!