Have you been reading the preliminary study results about the nutritional value of chocolate? A study at Cornell University showed that cocoa powder has 2 times the antioxidants of red wine and 3 times the antioxidants of green tea. Chocolate is rich in flavanols--strong antioxidants which help maintain healthy blood flow and blood pressure. They help make blood platelets less likely to stick together and cause blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes without the negative side effects of daily aspirin therapy. One study showed chocolate increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin.
A U.C. Davis study where 1 Tablespoon of cocoa was administered showed increased phenol levels which peaked after 2 hours and faded after 6 hours, so the health benefits will fade away also. The effects are not long lasting since the phenols do not remain in the blood stream long.
The best way to get your chocolate phenols is through unsweetened baking cocoa. It has almost 2 times the phenols of dark chocolate with no added fats or sweeteners.
"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." Charles M. Schulz
Today is a jog day for me. I am very fortunate to have a county park nearby in which to run and enjoy nature. So no excuses. It is time to get out there.
"Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul." John Muir
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