Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Health Benefits Of Milk Chocolate

Milk chocolate is produced from the cacao bean. Used for thousands of years by native people in Central America, chocolate was spread around the world when the Spanish brought it back to Europe. It is estimated that 3 billion lbs. of chocolate is consumed by Americans annually, with more than 60 percent of that chocolate eaten between meals. Milk chocolate is loved for its sweet taste and health benefits.


Dental Protection


Milk chocolate contains phosphate, which protects teeth from decay.


Antidepressant


Serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of well-being, is in milk chocolate.


Stimulation


Phenylethylamine and theobromine are chemicals found in milk chocolate that act as a mild stimulant.


Vitamins and Minerals


Milk chocolate is high in vitamins B1, B2, D and E. It also contains potassium and magnesium.


Low Blood Pressure


Flavonoids in chocolate cause the body to produce nitric oxide, which lowers blood pressure.


Antioxidants


Milk chocolate contains antioxidants that boost the immune system.


Low Cholesterol


Eating milk chocolate can lower levels of LDL cholesterol--known as the unhealthy kind--and raise HDL cholesterol levels.







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