Chocolate may protect against disease, stroke

Health Beat

Many people, afraid of the negative effects chocolate could have on their health, leave their Valentine's Day sweets untouched long after Feb. 14. But, chocolate has many positive health benefits, according to many students and doctors.

While some people choose not to eat chocolate because of its high content of saturated fats, Dr. Alan Turner told static.elibrary.com that many chocolates provide a healthy saturated fat.

Stearic acid protects against cardiovascular disease. Contrary to the negative reputation given to many saturated fats, some, such as stearic acid, fight blood clots and keep you going strong, according to Turner.

Cocoa is one of the largest producers of heart-healthy flavonoids, according to a study at www.pdrhealth.com. These phytochemicals block arterial damage and protect against heart attack or stroke.

Antioxidants — most commonly found in dark chocolate — contain chemicals that kill molecules that block artery wall linings, according to the same Web site. Researchers also have linked these chemicals with cancer prevention.

Cocoa also is the highest natural form of magnesium, according to www.aphrodite-chocolates.co.uk. The Web site stated that magnesium also helps prevent heart disease and other medical conditions.

According to Jean Carper of the book "Food- Your Miracle Medicine," dark chocolate contains large amounts of copper, which also wards off cardiovascular diseases. Chemicals in cocoa and many dark chocolates also affect neurotransmitters in the brain and counteract lactose intolerance, Carper said.

Many myths surround chocolate, including that it causes acne and is a fattening addiction.

It is true that many low-quality chocolates can be high in sugar and fat, but finer chocolates with high concentrations of real cocoa.

Top quality chocolate can stimulate both the brain and the body with energy and calmness, according to the Web site.

Some students said that chocolate lifts their mood and gives them energy.

"I've heard that chocolate mimics the feelings of being in love, so when I feel unloved, chocolate is my new best friend," freshman Rachel Barker said.

However, chocolate also has some negative effects.

Chocolate is high in calories, aggravates heartburn and can help create headaches, but only when consumed in large doses, according to www.headachedrugs.com.

Elizabeth Somer of book "Food and Mood" advised chocolate lovers to keep chocolate in their diets, but to limit the intake.