Chocolate

Chocolate has recently become the subject of rigorous scientific research. Very high levels of a nutrient called 'catechins' have been found in chocolate making it a richer source of antioxidants than tea. Further research has established that the catechins from chocolate are well absorbed by humans. There is even some evidence that eating chocolate has a positive impact on heart disease risk factors.

More long-term research is needed before the eating of chocolate can be clearly linked with long-term health benefits although chocolate is looking more appealing than ever at this stage.

The antioxidants in chocolate are present in the cocoa powder. Eating or drinking cocoa powder will give you all the antioxidants without the added fat and sugar of block chocolate. In fact, much of the research into the health benefits of chocolate has been done using chocolate drinks. It is still unclear if adding milk to chocolate reduces the absorption of the antioxidants, although there is evidence that milk added to tea does not affect the antioxidant absorption.

For many of us, block chocolate is our passion. Block chocolate, especially dark chocolate is a rich source of catechins however it also contains cocoa butter and sugar. The cocoa butter is very high in fat and, in combination with the sugar, gives block chocolate its well-deserved reputation as a high kilojoule food. Cocoa butter contains mainly saturated fats although its fatty acid profile appears to be fairly neutral with respect to heart disease risk factors. Compound chocolate, which is often used in baked products, mixes the cocoa with vegetable fats rather than cocoa butter making it less heart health friendly. White block chocolate does not contain the cocoa powder or catechins.

Chocolate has been linked with migraine headaches and regarded as a cause of acne. But so far, neither of these claims has been supported by research.

Chocolate is a source of caffeine, which is a stimulant to the central nervous system.

Eating small amounts of chocolate can be consistent with a healthy diet and will offer the protection of extra antioxidants. If you have an active lifestyle and can afford the extra kilojoules in your diet, then block chocolate could be your choice. If you want to avoid extra kilojoules then cocoa powder can be taken as a drink or used in low kilojoule recipes.

Antioxidants are present in all plant food including chocolate. A diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, nuts and wholegrain cereals is the best way to give your body the antioxidants it needs.


For individual advice about chocolate and ways to increase antioxidants in your diet contact an Accredited Practising Dietitian .