Health Benefits of Chocolate

The health benefits of chocolate may be more than you think! Sure, we all know how good it feels to bite into a delectable piece of chocolate, but did you know that this enjoyment can enhance your immune system – even hours later!

But the health benefits of chocolate are not just emotional - good high quality chocolates contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help your health. Chocolate with 60% or more cocoa solids (not the cheap chocolate as they don't have enough of the cocoa solids) contain calcium, iron, potassium and the vitamins A, B1, C, D and E.

Along with vitamins, high quality chocolate contains the highest amounts of magnesium among natural foods. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to diabetes, joint problems, hypertension and PMS. Ever wonder why you (or your wife) crave chocolate during certain times of the month? Well there's a reason, your body is telling you it needs magnesium!

One of the additional health benefits of chocolate is that it has been found to contain catechins - some of the same antioxidants found in green tea. The catechins attack free radicals which damage cells and are thought to lead to cancer and heart disease. So eating chocolate, may help to prevent heart disease and cancer!

What kind of chocolate has the best health benefits?

The health providing elements described above are found in the cocoa solids so you'll want to buy chocolate that has a high percentage (at least 60%) of solids. The most expensive chocolates probably have the highest concentration so those are a good bet. Cheap chocolate should be avoided as it typically has a low concentration and is higher in fat and sugar. Dark chocolate usually has the most cocoa solids and tastes great too!

To make sure you are getting the maximum benefits from eating this delicious treat always be sure to buy high quality gourmet chocolate candy.