Choose your chocolate Easter bunnies wisely

on


If you like chocolate Easter bunnies, 

be sure to choose the dark chocolate ones. Studies have shown that the cacao bean’s natural antioxidant compounds, called flavonoids, that are found in cocoa and dark chocolate may help maintain healthy arteries and improve blood flow. As a result, arteries relax, widen, and maintain their flexibility, reducing blood pressure and plaque buildup. In addition, dark chocolate may reduce the clotting properties of platelets, which help prevent blood clots and blockages in the heart’s vessels. Overall, this leads to less strain on the heart. 

 

Unfortunately, not all chocolate is equal. A typical dark chocolate bar contains as many antioxidants as 2.75 cups of green tea, a 5-ounce glass of red wine, or 2/3 cup of blueberries. In addition, it may contain minerals and dietary fiber. Generally, the higher the percentage of cocoa and chocolate liquor from the cacao bean, the more antioxidants are present. However, this percentage is affected by the introduction of milk (milk chocolate) and in the production of white chocolate, the latter of which does not contain any cocoa or chocolate liquor at all. 

 

So, this Easter, be wise when choosing your chocolate bunnies, but still enjoy them in moderation, of course.




Linda M. Walsh, RN, BSN
770-552-6400 x6019  

Comments

Post a Comment