Chocolate and Health

Chocolate

Chocolate has a long history as a favoured food of many cultures, including Aztec and Mayan. Today, it is considered a luxury food that should be eaten sparingly, since it can contribute to migraines, and obesity. However, new research is debunking these common fallacies. Studies are now indicating that chocolate or cocoa in moderation is actually good for us, and may help prevent heart disease, cancer and other degenerative illnesses, but more evidence is needed.

Vitamins, minerals and nutrients
The nutritional content of chocolate varies according to its recipe. Generally, chocolate contains:
# Protein - needed for cell maintenance and repair.
# Fat - mainly saturated fats, up to 50 per cent.
# Vitamin E which is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for the integrity of cell membranes.
# Calcium, phosphorus and magnesium minerals that are essential for strong bones and teeth.
# Iron - needed to form haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying compound in blood.
# Caffeine - a nervous system stimulant.
# Copper assists iron metabolism, formation of melanin (in hair and skin), and in the functioning of the central nervous system.

The link to migraines
Migraines are debilitating headaches caused by spasms of the arteries leading to the brain. The underlying mechanisms remain unclear, but a number of triggers seem to be needed to start the migraine process. Certain foods, including chocolate, are commonly cited as triggers. However, for most sufferers, chocolate can't start the migraine chain reaction by itself. Numerous international trials have found that other factors, such as stress (as a result of tiredness, excitement or anger) and hormones, need to be present at the same time. Fasting and some foods may also play a role. More research is needed before chocolate can be completely exonerated, but the evidence so far seems promising for chocolate lovers.

Acne and pimples
A recent study has shown that most people, around 70 per cent, believe that certain foods can cause or exacerbate acne. Chocolate was indicated as one of the main culprits. However, there is no evidence to back up this long held belief. According to scientific research to date, there are no compounds, ingredients or naturally occurring chemicals in chocolate that can either trigger acne or make it worse.