Lately, people have been referring to chocolate as a health food because of its high levels of antioxidants and also because it contains minerals such as potassium and magnesium, and flavonoids like copper and potassium. The phytochemical plant pigments from flavonoids act as natural antioxidants and neutralize free radicals. Chocolate also contains several vitamins, including B1, B2, D, and E. Dairy, however, can interfere with the absorption of these, which is why only dark chocolate offers the healthy benefits.
We should be careful to not use chocolate as a replacement for nourishing whole foods. There are better foods than chocolate as sources for antioxidants—namely green tea, fruit, vegetables, and especially leafy green foods. A large part of the allure of chocolate is, of course, the taste, which satisfies cravings for fat and carbohydrates. However, it’s important to realize that a craving for something fat and sweet can be a sign that we might need to feel nurtured. Many of us sometimes use chocolate to step in to rescue us and make us feel good. Avocadoes, for example, also satisfy cravings for fat and carbohydrates but—admittedly—do not have the same sinful satisfaction.
Before we blindly go for the box of chocolates, let’s be real for a moment and ask ourselves if we want (or need) to keep this occasional substitute for love within arms reach. Can we make some changes in our lives that encourage more of the real feelings of love? There’s so much to love, both within ourselves and those around us.
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