Chocolate Better Than Fruit Juices
April 17, 2012
Chocolate is deemed healthier compared to a lot of fruit juices. It's even considered as a superfood in its own right, according to a recent research conducted by an American-based chocolate company.
Superfoods are foods that contain high levels of compounds and antioxidants that help in preventing damage to healthy cells. Scientists from the Hershey Centre for Health & Nutrition in America discovered that powdered dark chocolate contains higher amounts of polyphenols and antioxidants, which are known to protect cardiac conditions and cancer.
Take fruit juice out of the picture as chocolate proves to be much better in boosting one's health, a recent study has indicated. Cocoa and dark chocolate have higher antioxidant capacity compared to fruit juices, such as pomegranate, cranberry, and blueberry powder, based on a study seen in Chemistry Central Journal.
Chocolate products also prove to contain higher levels of polyphenol and flavanols. The difference between dark chocolate and pomegranate juice wasn't massive, researchers discovered. But still, dark chocolate outdid other juices in the antioxidant department. However, it's not applicable to hot cocoa mix since it is highly processed.
"When looking for a sweet snack, a square of dark chocolate might, in fact, be your healthiest choice," says Suzanne Steinbaum, who is a cardiologist at Lenox Hill Hospital based in Manhattan. The findings came as no surprise to her though. It has long been known that antioxidants help keep the arteries in good shape, thus preventing heart diseases.
The researchers said: "Cocao seeds should be considered a superfruit and products derived from cocao seed extracts, such as natural cocoa powder and dark chocolate, as superfoods."
Dark chocolate has always been hyped for the health benefits it packs, such as lowering blood pressure. Nevertheless, these healthy perks do not necessarily extend to chocolate milk.
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This article supports the health benefits of chocolate. It is not meant to discourage the consumption of other fruits and juices. Every healthy diet must contain variety, and fruits are always a good choice.
chocolate from cocoa. cocoa is type of fruit….
it mean, doesnot matter if we do not take other fruit?