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All Natural A high-quality chocolate bar is fresh and naturally tastes good. Artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives aren’t necessary unless a bar falls short of these standards. Choose a chocolate that is free of unnecessary additives for a better, healthier product. Look for Freshness Make sure the chocolate bar you’re eating is fresh. Upon inspecting the bar, you should find a glossy surface and a dark color with reddish-black undertones. Chocolate that is stored improperly will have a visible “bloom,” which either looks like grayish-white blotches and streaks on the chocolate or causes the chocolate to feel rough. Exchange it for a fresh bar. Beyond Bars There are other ways to consume chocolate besides bars. In fact, a 2005 USDA study found that unsweetened cocoa powder contained the highest concentration of beneficial compounds of all chocolate products. However, as with chocolate bars, not all cocoa powder is created equal. Many cocoa powders are “Dutch processed” or “alkalized” to reduce their acidity, but this processing also reduces their antioxidants and phenols. Natural cocoa powder provides the most benefits. But what is one to do with this bitter powder, bearing in mind that mixing it with milk will take away its health-enhancing properties? If you’re brave, you could make an unsweetened chocolate beverage by stirring a heaping teaspoon of the stuff into 8 ounces of boiling water. Drink it much like you drink coffee—or even mix it with your coffee, which provides its own set of antioxidants! The Dark Side of Chocolate When choosing a chocolate product, consider looking for an organic certification. Over 30 different pesticides are used when growing cocoa beans, which are one of the world's most heavily sprayed crops. Certified Organic chocolate is made from cocoa plants that were not sprayed with chemical pesticides or herbicides, which could leave behind a residue in your chocolate. Although your choice in chocolate bars can’t change the world, and should not replace other healthy foods, it can be a healthy treat if you choose wisely. Refer the following cheat sheet before your next trip to the chocolate shop:
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Nutrition Articles › Meals and FoodBe Choosy about ChocolateNot All Chocolate is Created Equal-- By Liza Barnes, Health Educator
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About The Author
Liza Barnes
Liza has two bachelor's degrees: one in health promotion and education and a second in nursing. A registered nurse and mother, regular exercise and cooking are top priorities for her. See all of Liza's articles. |
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Member Comments
So, I'll stick to a great milk choc, skip the antioxidants, and just let myself enjoy my chocolate. My favorite (since I'm in Germany at the moment, there's so many great choices) either Ritter Sport Alpenmilch or, if I'm feeling especially like indulging, a piece of (I think it's Cailler) Rayon honey and milk chocolate. - 3/23/2013 9:27:59 AM
rhealth.com - 3/23/2013 9:21:03 AM
rhealth.com - 3/23/2013 9:21:03 AM
: ( - 3/23/2013 2:51:28 AM
Sanju - 6/20/2012 4:55:43 PM