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Dark Chocolate--Good for the Heart Says Researchers
FOOD SCIENCE: Some research suggests that the flavonoids found in dark chocolate may produce beneficial cardiovascular effects, much like those found in green and red fruits and vegetables, red wine and green tea.
Move over milk chocolate. Dark chocolate is commandeering real estate in the candy aisle, quite pleased with its deep, dark self.
It's not just pricey imported chocolate bars taking up shelf space and boasting how dark they are. Take a look at the dark chocolate M&M's and dark Hershey's Kisses.
There's method to this darkness. It just so happens that researchers recently have focused on the potential health benefits of dark chocolate, which ultimately could translate into ... cha-ching. In fact, candymakers are reporting an increased demand for the biting taste of dark chocolate.
So far, candy packaging doesn't claim such benefits, but some labels now billboard the candy's "percent cocoa" content -- 50, 60, 70 percent. That's because the higher the cocoa content, nutrition researchers say, the better.
Read "Heart-healthier Dark Chocolate Gains Shelf Space in Stores" (via DuluthNewsTribune.com)
More "Sweet! Study says dark chocolate has benefits" (via CNN)
Related article: Chocolate Lovers' Websites 2005
By Robert | July 24, 2005 in Chocolate, Food News | Permalink
