Chocolate it the most loved confectionery on the planet and there’s a lot written about it. We look at the sweet science of chocolate and separate the facts from the myths.
MYTH 1: Chocolate is high in caffeine
FACT: While chocolate contains caffeine, it’s less than you think. A 40g bar of chocolate has the same caffeine as a cup of decaf: 6mg. Dark chocolate does have higher caffeine than milk chocolate.
MYTH 2: Chocolate causes acne
FACT: Every teenager believes this but studies in the past two decades cannot find a connection and many dermatologists doubt that diet has a major role in the development of acne.
MYTH 3: Chocolate has no nutritional value
FACT: Chocolate is a source of magnesium, copper, iron and zinc. It also contains flavonoids which are part of a group of antioxidants also found in red wine and tea.
MYTH 4: Chocolate causes weight gain
FACT: While chocolate has calories, fat and sugar, an occasional piece of chocolate can stop you from binge eating and gaining weight. Eat in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
MYTH 5: Chocolate raises your bad cholesterol
FACT: Stearic acid is the main fat in chocolate and research has shown that it doesn’t raise your bad (LDL) cholesterol, but dark chocolate can – when eaten in moderation – help to lower it.
MYTH 6: Chocolate cases cavities
FACT: Bacteria in your mouth ferments sugary food to produce acid and this is what causes tooth decay. Some dentists believe compounds in dark chocolate fight tooth decay better than fluoride.
MYTH 7: Chocolate causes headaches
FACT: In the past chocolate has been given as the reason for migraines, however studies of chronic migraine sufferers have shown no link between eating chocolate and getting headaches.
MYTH 8: Chocolate can add to stress
FACT: According to studies, eating dark chocolate on a daily basis – but in moderation – is a stress reliever and it also boosts brain activity.
For many years chocolate has had a bad reputation but chocoholics are determined to change this and they’re turning to science. Chocolate, particularly the dark variety, has many health benefits and it can form part of a healthy lifestyle. But, like everything in life, moderation is key!
From dark chocolate slabs to boxes of truffles and other delicious dark treats – visit the Beyers online shop, our factory stores or any major retailer.
This blog is only for information purposes only and should not be treated as medical advice.
