Is Chocolate Healthy For You?

 

As Valentine’s Day draws near, the foil boxes of chocolates lining store shelves tempts most of us.

While flowers and a fruit basket are a healthy alternative to chocolates, some people still want chocolate more than anything else.

If you absolutely need to have or give chocolates, comfort yourself with these 7 facts:

1. While many think chocolate is high in caffeine, a 1.4 ounce bar has the same amount of caffeine as a cup of decaffeinated coffee.
2. Chocolate is a source of iron, zinc, magnesium and copper.
3. The average chocolate bar has the same amount of antioxidants as 5 ounces of red wine.
4. The unique saturated fat in chocolate, stearic acid, does not raise your cholesterol levels.
5. Eating chocolate increases HDL, your good cholesterol levels.
6. There is no scientific evidence that chocolate causes headaches or acne.
7. Chocolate is also a feel-good food and you won’t gain weight if you eat it in moderation.

While there are healthier Valentine’s Day options, you can still enjoy a little bit of chocolate without guilt. Moderation is the key!