Chocolate: Food of the Gods!

The word chocolate literally means "food of the Gods". This delightful, smooth and creamy treat has, for years, been a forbidden fruit for women. Now the research is in, eating chocolate is good for you! For centuries chocolate has been used to treat disease and illnesses such as depression. Both Mexico and Europe hail chocolate as an aphrodisiac, (and who can argue with them). During World War II, the U.S. government officially recognized the virtues of chocolate when it became standard issue for the military. According to surveys, chocolate is the #1 food craved by women across North America and is second among men right behind pizza.

Chocolate has exceptional nutritional and emotional value packed in a small piece. Cravers don't need research to tell us of the powerful mood altering feeling while eating chocolate. Ifs feel good chemicals have long been associated with feelings of love, safety and comfort. Perhaps that is why Americans consume an average of 12 pounds of chocolate per year. In addition to making one feeling good, chocolate contains vitamins and minerals that pack a nutritional punch. Chocolate contains vitamins A, B1, C, D and E as well as potassium, sodium, iron, and fluorine as well as additional substances in small but effective quantities. The antioxidants in chocolate, dark chocolate and cocoa powder may increase good cholesterol levels by as much as 10%. While many people take vitamins and other antioxidants to help prevent plaque buildup, studies now show that cocoa could do the trick, (what a delicious option). Good bye Flintstone vitamins, hello Hershey bar!!

This of course is great news for women. One study reported that 01% of chocolate-cravings associated with the menstrual cycle occurred between ovulation and the start of menstruation. Chocolate cravings are admitted by 40% of women (and an amazing 15% of men). Most cravings attack in the later afternoon and early evening. Some research indicates that the craving for chocolate is purely a psychological craving. Other, wiser, research suggests that premenstrual cravings a physiological connection. Chocolate contains over 400 chemicals, some mood altering, so its no wonder women crave it.

Although nutritionally and emotionally sound, self restraint should be used when one indulges. Chocolate pack an amazing 150 calories per ounce, half of which are from fat. So indulge, guilt free, but indulge wisely. Chocolate should be incorporated into a balance diet and used in moderation. So, the next time you get that urge, don't despair, pack away the guilt and unwrap a chocolate bar!