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Chocolate
Chocolate has a long history as a favoured food
of many cultures, including Aztec and Mayan.
Today, it is considered a luxury food that
should be eaten sparingly, since it can
contribute to migraines, and obesity. However,
new research is debunking these common
fallacies. Studies are now indicating that
chocolate or cocoa in moderation is actually
good for us, and may help prevent heart disease,
cancer and other degenerative illnesses, but
more evidence is needed.
Vitamins, minerals and nutrients
The nutritional content of chocolate varies
according to its recipe. Generally, chocolate
contains:
-
Protein - needed for
cell maintenance and repair.
-
Fat - mainly saturated
fats, up to 50 per cent.
-
Vitamin E which is a
fat-soluble vitamin essential for the
integrity of cell membranes.
-
Calcium, phosphorus
and magnesium minerals that are essential
for strong bones and teeth.
-
Iron - needed to form
haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying compound in
blood.
-
Caffeine - a nervous
system stimulant.
-
Copper assists iron
metabolism, formation of melanin (in hair
and skin), and in the functioning of the
central nervous system.
The link to migraines
Migraines are debilitating headaches caused
by spasms of the arteries leading to the brain.
The underlying mechanisms remain unclear, but a
number of triggers seem to be needed to start
the migraine process. Certain foods, including
chocolate, are commonly cited as triggers.
However, for most sufferers, chocolate can't
start the migraine chain reaction by itself.
Numerous international trials have found that
other factors, such as stress (as a result of
tiredness, excitement or anger) and hormones,
need to be present at the same time. Fasting and
some foods may also play a role. More research
is needed before chocolate can be completely
exonerated, but the evidence so far seems
promising for chocolate lovers.
Acne and pimples
A recent study has shown that most people,
around 70 per cent, believe that certain foods
can cause or exacerbate acne. Chocolate was
indicated as one of the main culprits. However,
there is no evidence to back up this long held
belief. According to scientific research to
date, there are no compounds, ingredients or
naturally occurring chemicals in chocolate that
can either trigger acne or make it worse.
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