Sandy Crest Medical Centre - Health Tips
Chocolate on Valentines Day
Valentine’s Day and chocolate consumption is likely to peak at
this time of year.
Chocolate contain the antioxidant polyphenols (i.e. a flavonoid)
– the same antioxidant found in red wine. Dark chocolate contains
twice as much polyphenols when compared to chocolates of a lighter
hue. Polyphenols prevent the LDL-Cholesterol (i.e. “bad
cholesterol”) from becoming oxidized and deposited in the artery
walls.
Eating chocolate causes the release of certain “good feel”
chemicals in the brain. These chemicals include phenylethylamine,
tryptophan and theobromine.
On the flip side chocolate is relatively expensive, it packs a
lot of calories and (its over consumption) can be linked to obesity
and Type II diabetes in some people.
It must be noted that chocolate is not associated with acne or
tooth decay.
Some persons may experience migraine and heartburn after
consuming chocolate.
The bottom line is that chocolate consumption should be in
moderation.
Happy Valentine’s.
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