It's true that certain types of chocolate are good for the cardiovascular system - but certainly not all chocolate. When it comes to good health, the most important thing is to choose dark chocolate versus milk chocolate. The darker the chocolate, the richer it is in flavonoids (also known as bioflavonoids) -- which are responsible for most of chocolate's health benefits. Also - milk inhibits intestinal absorption of flavonoids, so you lose even more of these fabulous plant chemicals during digestion if you choose milk chocolate.

Step 1: Cocoa Content

When buying dark chocolate look for 70% cocoa content. Very dark chocolate can be an acquired taste, though, so play around with different brands until you hit on one you like.

Step 2: Fat Content

The type of fat listed in the ingredients is important. You want to avoid products that contain palm oil or coconut oil or milk fat, and choose ones that are made from "cocoa butter". Even though they're all saturated fats, "cocoa butter" has a neutral effect on cholesterol levels, while the other two can raise your blood cholesterol.

A few of my favorite brands:

* Chocolove 70% and 77%
* Chocolatour Sao Tome 70%
* Chocolatour Dominican Republic 70%
* Ghirardelli Twilight Delight 72%
* New Tree 73%
* Santander 70%
* Dagoba 74%

 

If you're watching your weight, remember even the darkest of dark chocolate is a treat you should eat in moderation because it's caloric. One ounce contains about 150 calories.

 

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