Wholesome Ingredients

Natural chocolate (dark and semi-sweet) is rich in healthy substances. These include:

carbohydrates - a fundamental source of energy and nutrition for our brains

magnesium - plays a significant role in releasing energy from food, and helps the transmission of nerve impulses

iron - essential in the production of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen around the body

niacin - helps metabolise food into energy

theobromine - stimulates the activity of the kidneys and the central nervous system, a mild diuretic with effects similar to caffeine

phenylethylamine - belongs to the endorphin group of substances which when present in the bloodstream give improvements in mood, and stimulate positive energy and emotions. The effects, which are similar to what athletes experience, can range from mild feelings of happiness to euphoria

flavanols – impede the oxidisation of “bad” cholesterol, increase resistance to infection, contribute to the regulation of muscular and blood vessel contraction, and prevent blood platelets sticking together. These compounds are also found in apples, almonds, grapes, and wine, but nowhere are they present in such large numbers as in cocoa beans.

Due to the addition of condensed milk, white and milk chocolate also contains protein, which is important for growth and tissue repair, and calcium, which is needed for healthy muscles, the correct functioning of the nervous system, enzymes, and blood coagulation.

Calorific Content

• 100 grams of semi-sweet chocolate has 531 kcal
• 100 grams of milk chocolate with nuts has 539 kcal
• 100 grams of dark chocolate has 554 kcal
• 100 grams of white chocolate has 578 kcal
• a cup of hot chocolate has about 150 kcal

Health Benefits

1. Recent studies by medical institutions in the USA indicate that chocolate slows down the activity of blood platelets so that they have a decreased tendency to stick together. This hinders the formation of blood clots and reduces the risk of heart attack. The ingredients in chocolate also improve the elasticity of blood vessel walls, which helps prevent embolisms and similar disorders. Polyphenols from the cocoa bean improve the functioning of the circulatory system. They enlarge blood vessels (allowing an easier flow of blood), neutralise the effects of “bad” cholesterol, and combat the build-up of blood vessel blockages. According to experts a daily intake of about a third of a bar of dark chocolate provides protection against heart disease.

2. The level of antioxidants in the blood rises by nearly 20 percent as a result of chocolate intake (more than with red wine). Antioxidants inhibit the ageing process and protect the body against free radicals which damage cells and cause heart disease and cancer. However, this phenomenon has only been observed with dark chocolate.

3. Chocolate contains many ingredients which raise the level of serotonin in the blood. Serotonin is the hormone responsible for feelings of well-being and vitality. It produces positive emotions. Also, in every 100 grams of dark chocolate there are around 300 milligrams of magnesium, a mineral with very significant benefits for the nervous system. It improves intellectual abilities and speeds up nerve impulses.

4. Research conducted by a group of experts from Helsinki has shown that chocolate has a positive impact on the state of mind of pregnant women, and thus assists in the healthy development of the foetus. According to these experts, mothers who eat dark chocolate regularly during pregnancy are happier and more active.

5. Chocolate is better for teeth than other types of confectionery. Recent evidence from Japan even suggests that chocolate contains substances that help to fight tooth decay. Japanese researchers are developing a new toothpaste which will be enriched with cocoa bean husk extract. It should be remembered that, like all confectionery, chocolate contains carbohydrates which when they break down are harmful to teeth. But chocolate remains in our mouths only briefly because it quickly melts and we then swallow it, so it causes less harm than other confectionery such as caramels or toffees. However, after eating chocolate it is always best to carefully brush your teeth.