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All there is to chocolate:

Chocolates have been consumed since time immemorial. The cacao tree produces seeds that are bitter in nature. These seeds should first be fermented and then dried, cleansed and roasted. After this, the shell is removed and a mass of cocoa is obtained. This undergoes many processes further and is then obtained as chocolate.

Chocolate is usually in two forms. Unsweetened chocolate is essentially pure chocolate which contains cocoa butter and cocoa solids while sweetened chocolate contains sugar in addition to the cocoa butter and cocoa solids.

Health benefits of chocolate:

There is no doubt that chocolates hold a certain appeal and captivate your taste buds. However, it is said that chocolates also have health benefits. These include:

• Lowers cholesterol: It may come off as a surprise to many that chocolates do actually lower the LDL cholesterol level in the body as opposed to the common misconception that they increase cholesterol levels. Chocolate bars contain cocoa flavanols and plant steroids. These reduce the fat content in the body and hence help in lowering cholesterol. Thus, in turn, the risk of cardiovascular diseases is reduced. Also, according to research conducted in the US, people who consume chocolates often were at a lower risk of strokes when compared with those who did not.

• Rich in antioxidants: Cocoa beans, when tested against harmful free radicals disarmed them efficiently. This was due to the presence of biologically active antioxidants such as flavanols, polyphenols and catechins.These antioxidants fight disease causing agents and thus reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer to a great extent.

• Improves brain function:Chocolates contain a significantly large content of flavanol. Flavanol helps improve the blood flow to the brain and thus helps it function better. Also consuming chocolate on a regular basis improves cognitive functions and deals with mental impairment. Stimulating substances such as theobromine and caffeine present in chocolate also contributes to enhancing memory.

• Nutrition: Chocolate, especially dark chocolate is said to have soluble fibers which help with bowel movement. Chocolate also contains minerals such as Iron, Copper, Magnesium and Potassium.
• Stress buster:Chocolates contain phenylethylamine which is similar to dopamine which is produced by the body. This thus acts as an antidepressant and relieves stress from the body.

Thus, chocolate is not only one of the most delicious foods in the world, but if consumed in the advised amounts can make you healthier and happier. Make sure you pick only those which contain 100% organic ingredients so that your body stays protected from harmful chemicals. Click here  for more details and products.