Chocolate is one of the most loved sweet treats in the world, but there are some myths about chocolate that are about to be exposed. It’s amazing how chocolate comes in so many ways, from white chocolate to dark chocolate, from the good old candy bars we grew up with to rich chocolate bonbons from your favorite chocolatier in town. Let’s face it, there aren’t many people who don’t love this delight. Either way, these myths about chocolate will blow your mind.
It’s one of the biggest myths about chocolate that many still believe. Studies have shown there is no correlation between chocolate and pimples, as chocolate doesn’t cause any inflammation. However, those who think they are sensitive to chocolate are more likely to be sensitive to sugar. If you think you’re sensitive to chocolate, try one with less sugar in it, for example a 70% bar.
Dark chocolate is full of antioxidants which are also found in green tea, red wine and berries. It also contains dietary fiber and minerals, meaning a daily square of your favorite dark chocolate will do you more good than harm. Some experts even say chocolate can be called a super food.
Even though chocolate is high in saturated fat, it doesn’t raise your levels of cholesterol in the blood. The fat in cocoa butter is surprisingly different from others that are high in saturated fat, says a study published in 1988. This means even those with high cholesterol can still enjoy a piece of chocolate every now and then.
It’s a myth that may or may not be true. The myth was brought to life by the Aztecs, but researchers have not yet found a link between the consumption of chocolate and a romantic mood. This myth could be true in a more psychological way, as eating chocolate can be sensual and stress-lowering.
Apparently, some people believe that consuming chocolate is the cause of their headaches, and some even say they get migraine attacks from it. Researchers haven’t found any link between chocolate and headaches so far, so don’t worry about that square of your favorite bar.
Not at all. It’s a fact that chocolate contains caffeine, but the levels are by no means the equivalent of your morning cup of Joe. In fact, the level of caffeine found in one serving of chocolate is more equal to the level of caffeine in a cup of decaffeinated coffee, meaning there’s hardly anything there to worry about.
If anything, it’s the sugar that’s found in some milk chocolate bars. Good quality dark chocolate will not cause any cavities, according to a study performed in Osaka, Japan. Researchers also pointed out that chocolate actually fights mouth bacteria and tooth decay. I say, start munching away…
Are you a chocolate lover who has been depriving herself of her favorite treat? I sure hope you’re about to run to the store to get yourself the best bar you can find. After all, if we listen to researchers, chocolate isn't so bad for you. All you have to do is pick a good quality one and stick with it to reap the benefits. What’s your favorite kind of chocolate?
Sources: mnn.com, streetdirectory.com