Because it happens to be World Chocolate Day, I thought I’d discuss this much adored treat. There are many reasons to love chocolate and not feel bad about eating it – but let’s get the facts straight first!
Cocoa is the component with the health benefits, from the plant Theobroma cacao tree. Cocoa contains a respectable number of polyphenols and other antioxidants which are also supportive of our cardiovascular systems and brain health. Rich in one of the chemical alkaloids called theobromine, cocoa acts as a mood enhancer as well.
Here’s where people get tripped up however: milk chocolate and other chocolate treats that don’t actually have very much cocoa content and are instead full of sugar, milk, and/or high fat oils don’t deliver the health benefits of the cacao. They only undermine any basis of “chocolate being healthy for you.”
Check for the % cocoa/cacao of the product, and for a general rule of thumb, look for a minimum of 70%. As always, review the ingredient list and nutrition label (including being aware of the serving size). Most importantly, don’t overindulge! Pure cocoa powder though, can be incorporated more liberally. 
Dark chocolate is full of complex flavors to delight in and savor. One of nature’s amazing treasures we have the privilege to take advantage of. Happy World Chocolate Day!
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