by Katarzyna Radzka

Created on: June 13, 2009

Chocolate has been around since the time of the Aztecs. Once upon a time it was used as a special drink only for men, and known as the drink of the Gods, where people believed it brought on wisdom. The history is equally rich as the best dark chocolate around, and medical research has shown that there are many health benefits of eating chocolate. It definitely shouldn't be a primary source of food, but including a small piece every day will definitely benefit our overall health.

Chocolate has been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure in people if consumed in small amounts. This is no reason to start eating a whole block in one go, that's going to have adverse effects. Instead enjoy a small piece or mini row of chocolate, about 20g, for dessert. Go for the dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa, as the milk and white chocolate doesn't have the same health benefits.

Chocolate reduces mood swings in women during PMS, a difficult time for many women. Having a piece of chocolate or two, releases endorphins in the brain which make us feel much happier than we were before eating the dark stuff. So if you're partner struggles with PMS, the best treat you can give her is to leave some dark chocolate lying around. Or better yet, go out for a chocolate drink.

Chocolate is filled with the magical things called antioxidants which are required in our bodies to reduce the risk of cancer, improve our general well-being and make us look and feel younger for longer. The type of antioxidants found in chocolate can also be found in green tea, red wine and blueberries.

If antioxidants aren't enough, dark chocolate also contains vitamins A, B1, D & E, as well as iron, potassium and magnesium. Our bodies need these vitamins to stay healthy, and while we can get them from other healthy food, it's nice to know that they are in chocolate as well, it makes eating chocolate a less guilty treat.

Over indulging in chocolate, just like over indulging in anything is unhealthy. However, using common sense and consuming dark chocolate in moderation, a small 20g piece a day, is actually beneficial to our general health and well-being. Looking and feeling younger, feeling happy, and getting some antioxidants and vitamins into your daily diet. Remember when choosing chocolate to go for 70% or more cocoa to make the most of these health benefits and limit your consumption of milk and white chocolate.

Learn more about this author, Katarzyna Radzka.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.