Chocolate: minerals, antioxidants and happiness
SUNDAY was International Chocolate Day and we could not let this scrumptious annual acknowledgement of man's finest culinary achievement pass without reflecting on this milky wonder.
You might think of chocolate as a sinful indulgence, but according to Tweed nutritionist and naturopath Olwen Anderson this is not the case.
"There are both psychical and emotional benefits to eating chocolate," Ms Anderson said, much to the delight of this reporter.
She said chocolate contained antioxidants and darker chocolates had minerals, such as magnesium.
But the goodness doesn't stop there. Ms Anderson confirmed what all choccie lovers already know - chocolate makes you feel better.
"Psychologically it gives you a bit of a boost," she said.
"It affects the neurotransmitters in the brain and can improve your sense of happiness."
"But (why is there always a but?), the key to enjoying chocolate is moderation."
"When you examine the amount of fat and sugar it is quite dense."
"It's easy to go over board."
Ms Anderson said eating a block of chocolate every night was way too much.
"Eat it consciously," she said.
Reader poll
What is your favourite chocolate?
This poll ended on 17 July 2013.
Current Results
Milk
36%
White
13%
Dark
50%
This is not a scientific poll. The results reflect only the opinions of those who chose to participate.
