The Good and Bad of Eating Chocolate

As a food item, chocolate has been a source of controversy over the years. And many have renewed debates over what chocolate really does to you body. Is it junk food or soul food? But you have to admit, chocolate is good – real good. That’s probably why you find in all forms, sizes, and food items. Anyway, here are some points on the good and bad of chocolate.

Positive side of eating chocolate

• It’s the classic soul food. Chocolate contains tryptophan which is a chemical that is used by the brain to produce serotonin. Serotonin, in boosted levels, create the feeling of elation.

• It’s as good as sex. Chocolate also contains phenylethylamine – the same drug that reaches peak levels during orgasm. Probably why having melted chocolate makes things twice the fun.

• It has anti-oxidants (the same ones that can be found in green tea, orange juice, onions, bananas, apples, corn, spinach, and red wine). This means it’s healthful as antioxidants help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. They also protect cells from damage caused by toxins.

• It’s a source of good cholesterol.

Negative side of eating chocolate

Not too much if you don’t gobble everything in one sitting. As experts say, it is not a health food and since there are many other sources of antioxidants, why stick to a candy bar?

So to balance the urge to purge the sweet thing, and to stay fit and healthy:

• Eat a small amount at a time. You are not as hungry for chocolate as you think you are. A small fix can do you as good as much as a big one, so why not opt for the less fattening one as well?

• Like most food, there are especially made chocolate products that are lower in fat and calories. Try to steer towards these other options.

• Many do not like the more bitter taste of dark chocolate, but it is richer in those antioxidants and nutrition than the regular milk chocolate.

• Say no to chocolate products that have “hydrogenated oils” in them. These oils create trans fat that can be very bad to your heart. So before you reach out for the yummy-looking chocolate bar, check the label first.

*Adapted from:

http://www.lifespy.com/2008/the-good-and-bad-of-eating-chocolate/