A news release from University of Texas M.D. pointed out the great news for Valentine’s Day is by giving dark chocolate to your loved ones, it could help protect them from cancer risks.

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that have been shown to combat cell damage that can lead to tumor growth. These antioxidants occur naturally in the cacao beans used to make all chocolate products.

Why dark chocolate?

1. The main reason that eating dark chocolate, versus milk or white chocolate is because it has a higher percentage of cacao, and thus antioxidants.

2. People should look for dark chocolate that contains at least 65 percent cacao, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research.

3. Flavonoids, the antioxidants in chocolate, come from the extracts of the cocoa beans. The darker the chocolate, the more antioxidants it has, and the better it is for you.

4. Chocolate also contains oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that can be found in olive oil.

Benefits of dark chocolate:

1. Reduce cancer risks.

2. Guard heart health and preventing cholesterol from sticking to the artery walls, thus reducing the risk for heart attack or stroke.

3. In addition, chocolate includes chemicals that help to lower the risk of sugar-damaged teeth.

Recommendations:

1. Servings for dark chocolate are seven ounces per week, or about one ounce per day.

2. Chocolate is best tasted on an empty stomach at temperatures between 66 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. When tasting chocolate, start with the chocolate containing the least cocoa. Let it sit in your mouth to release the primary flavors and aromas. Chew it a few times to experience the secondary aromas. Finally, place the chocolate gently against the roof of your mouth and savor it.

4. Try making it a part of a healthy snack by combining it with nutrient-rich fruits.

5. Savoring a small amount of dark chocolate is much better than gulping soft drinks or eating doughnuts.

6. Remember, dark chocolate is still a calorie-dense food that can be high in fat. You can enjoy it daily as part of a balanced diet, as long as you keep your portion size in check. It is best to buy chocolate that can be eaten in small portions, such as individually wrapped chocolates or boxed chocolates. Check the ingredients to make sure the chocolate doesn’t contain fats, such as palm and coconut oils, and those they are made without the use of hydrogenated or partially hydrogenate oils.

Valentine chocolate

So who says that chocolate will endanger your weight loss program, as long as you know the tricks, chocolate has the ability to keep your health naturally. I love chocolate so much!