Healthy Fundraising USA™
"Healthy Fundraising for Healthier Kids"
1-888-259-6876
Partners For Healthy Kids™, Healthy Fundraising USA™ and The Health Card™ are trademarks of Partners For Healthy Kids, Inc
© 2003-2005 Partners For Healthy Kids, Inc. All rights reserved
GOOD CHOCOLATE IS GOOD FOR YOU!
More benefits and reasons to love and eat chocolate
- Chocolate decreases blood pressure
- Improves circulation
- Lowers death rate from heart disease
- Improves function of endothelial cells that line the blood vessels
- Improves Digestion and stimulate kidneys
- Has been used to help treat patients with anemia, kidney stones and poor appetite
- Scientists at the University of California at Davis revealed in 1996 that chocolate is rich in antioxidants called phenolics and that Cocoa contains the same type of disease-fighting flavonoids as red wine, green tea and fruits and vegetables.
- These Antioxidants defend against free radicals, and have been helpful in the prevention of cancer, heart disease and stroke.
- New Japanese tests have shown these powerful antioxidants to boost the immune system.
- A 1994 study at Pennsylvania State University found that the fats found in high quality chocolates do not elevate cholesterol levels.
- Chocolate contains essential trace elements and nutrients such as iron, calcium, potassium, copper, phosphorous and vitamins A. B1, B2 C, D, E, riboflavin and niacin. .
- Cocoa is also the highest natural source for Magnesium. Magnesium deficiency is linked with hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, joint problems and pre-menstrual tension (PMT or PMS).
- Chocolate appears to boost "feel-good" chemicals in the brain (endorphins) and works in our body as an anti-depressant (serotonin), thus promoting euphoria and calm.
- Cocoa stimulates lactase enzyme activity and makes milk easier to digest if you are lactose-intolerant.
- Dark chocolate contains high levels of chromium, which helps control blood sugar.
- Researchers found that the cocoa butter in chocolate has antibacterial compound that coat the teeth, making it one of the least likely snacks to cause tooth decay.
- Chocolate doesn't cause acne or irritate it
Some Practical Suggestions
- To get the greatest amounts of flavonoid for your caloric buck, choose high quality semisweet dark chocolate.
- Chocolate candies and treats made with hydrogenated fats or refined flour should be avoided, as neither promotes good health.
- Pass on any product labeled "artificial chocolate" or "chocolate flavored." These are imitations that do not even come close to real chocolate in flavor, texture or health benefits
- Although dark chocolate has many health benefits, keep in mind that it does add calories to your diet and adjustments should be made to stay within your calorie intake needs..
- Since chocolate's beneficial polyphenols have been removed from white chocolate, it cannot be considered as a healthful food.
Tips on how to enjoy fine chocolate (American Dietetic Association)
- Chocolate is best tasted on an empty stomach. Never put your chocolate in the refrigerator -- it will cause the cocoa to separate and form a white bloom.
- When tasting dark chocolate, let it sit in your mouth for a few seconds to release its primary flavours and aromas. Then chew it a few times to release the secondary aromas. Let it rest lightly against the roof of your mouth so you experience the full range of flavours. Finally, enjoy the lingering taste in your mouth.
For more information or samples of our Healthy Newman's Own Organics Chocolate Fundraiser, call:
1-888-259-6876
