It’s true. I adore eating chocolate. So, to celebrate one of the world’s greatest culinary inventions…
1. In a recent survey 52% of Americans stated chocolate was their favorite flavor. The second favorite flavors were berry and vanilla with 12% of the vote each.
2. Half of Americans (51%) choose what chocolate they eat by the shape of the piece.
3. The melting point of cocoa butter is just below the human body temperature — which is why it literally melts in your mouth.
4. Theobroma Cacao is the official scientific name given to cacao by Swedish Botanist Carolus Linnaeus in the 18 th century. The word Theobroma comes from the Greek language literally meaning, ‘food of the gods.’ While the exact origin of cocoa is still debated, it said to have been introduced by the ancient Maya to Central America from the South American highlands of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The word for cacao (cocoa in Spanishi) is thought to have been created by the Olmec Indians whom historical linguistical investigations indicate may have been using the term around 1000 BC Mayan Indians were the first to create a beverage from cocoa.
5. Recent studies have shown that eating chocolate may actually be good for you. Researchers have found that raw and / or minimally processed cocoa – as is found in Yachana Jungle Chocolate – contains flavonoids similar to those found in green tea. According to preliminary studies, these antioxidants have been linked to help accomplish the following:
Decrease blood pressure
Improve circulation
Lower death rate from heart disease
Improve function of endothelial cells that line the blood vessels
Defend against destructive molecules called free radicals, which trigger cancer, heart disease and stroke
Improve Digestion and stimulate kidneys
Has been used to help treat patients with anemia, kidney stones and poor appetite
6. Placebo-controlled trials suggest chocolate consumption may subtly enhance cognitive performance. As reported by Dr Bryan Raudenbush (2006), scores for verbal and visual memory are raised by eating chocolate. Impulse-control and reaction-time are also improved. This study needs replicating.
7. Today, chocolates of every description are legal, unscheduled and readily available over the counter. Some 50% of women reportedly claim to prefer chocolate to sex, though this response may depend on the attributes of the interviewer.
8. Acne – There is no established link between developing acne and eating chocolate.
9. Cavities – Studies have not placed chocolate high on the list of cavity-causing products. The cocoa butter in chocolate may provide protection against tooth decay.
10. Addiction – As a food substance, chocolate has no addictive ingredients.
11. Store chocolate in a cool (60-70° F), dark, dry place away from strong-smelling items such as peppermint or dirty socks. Chocolate has a tendency to absorb other odors. Do not store chocolate in the refrigerator.
12. White chocolate is not technically one of the types of chocolate because it does not contain any chocolate liquor. It must contain at least 20% cocoa butter and 14% milk, plus sugar in varying amounts.
13. For all things chocolate in a blog go here.
And final words of wisdom…
Put “eat chocolate” at the top of your list of things to do today. That way, at least you’ll get one thing done.
Are you a chocolate fan like me, and if so, what is your favorite chocolate treat? If…gasp!…you don’t enjoy chocolate, what is your favorite flavor?
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