Chocolate is a natural, plant based product. Therefore it contains many valuable ingredients. Polyphenols believed to counteract free radicals in addition to B-complex, D and E vitamins. Consumed in moderation, it has its place in a balanced diet. It is believed that an ounce of dark chocolate per day will provide the most benefits and not increase your waistline. And while chocolate may be high in calories it compensates for energy loss due to physical exertion. The main reason it is a favorite with athletes and students alike.

Chocolate also does not harm teeth. Milk and white chocolate are rich in vitamins A and B12 which, among other things, contribute to the growth of healthy teeth and bones. These vitamins also aid the absorption of calcium and phosphorous needed for the creation of red blood cells and the growth of muscles and tissues. Cocoa butter also helps sticky, sugary foods from sticking to your teeth helping to prevent tooth decay.

While chocolate may contain sugar it is absorbed slowly into the blood stream. This is in part thanks to the natural fat, cocoa butter. The caffeine-like substance, theobromine is also in such small amounts that many of us will feel no affect from it at all.

More and more information becomes available about chocolate and good health. Studies are being done by some very credited instituions on the benefits chocolate. Maybe one day we will adopt the saying “A chocolate a day will keep the doctor away” but until then we chocolate lovers will just have to keep preaching.

The author is owner of Van Holten’s Homemade Chocolates and Candies located in Kearny, NJ and on line at: http://www.vanholtens.com. Also a chocolate and candy enthusiast, I have been in the business for over 30 years. Now trying to spread the word on the benefits of chocolate and how it can be part of a healthy and balanced diet.