Let's Talk Choc(olate) – Health Benefits and Romance-Enhancer

Valentine's Day is here, and in addition to the heart cards and flowers, it's a big day for chocolate. Let's learn a little more about this ubiquitous treat.

While its popularity dates back to the Aztecs and Mayans, it was the British who commercialized it for Valentine’s Day. They were the first to produce chocolate bonbons sold in fancy, heart-shaped boxes. 

Why Chocolate Enhances Romance (and heart health)

And maybe they had a good reason – chocolate is known to be an aphrodisiac!

It contains two chemicals linked to arousal: tryptophan and phenylethylamine, released when people fall in love.

Research shows that dark chocolate has potential benefits for heart health, cognitive function, iron deficiency and even acts as a muscle relaxant. It has a higher percentage of cacao solids by volume than milk chocolate resulting in a higher percentage of flavonoids, magnesium and iron. It is also higher in fiber and lower in sugar than its milk chocolate counterpart. 

How Much is Too Much?

Like with anything, moderation is key. Too much chocolate may add to your risk for high cholesterol. And it should come as no surprise that not all chocolate is created equal. Many chocolates sold exceed safe heavy metal consumption for cadmium and lead. This can occur because of the soil the cocoa bean is grown in, or the cleanliness of the processing facility.

Use chocolate as a treat and as part of a well-rounded diet. And don’t assume organic dark chocolates are better. Dark chocolate brands with the lowest levels of cadmium and lead are Mast, Taza, Ghiradelli Intense Dark, and Vahlrona.