How sweet it is!

Just the thought of chocolate awakens many senses and emotions: dreamy, naughty, indulgent, creamy, rich, delicious, sexy, love, comfort and calories! But healthy?…believe it or not.

 

 

 

Chocolate is made form seeds of the cacao tree, discovered 2000 years ago in South America. The Maya andAztec people made thick drinks mixed with chilli and herbs, befroe the Spanish invasion, when the seeds were brought to Europe and new recipes were invented. For cenutries, chocolate has been consumed globally on a daily basis and right back to its origin it has been linked with health bnefits, including treatment for depression and cancer. Chocolate’s scientific name “theobroma cacao” literally means “food of the gods”.

Countless quotes about chocolates life-enhancing virtues have been recorded by practisioners and poets. In 1796 Antonio Lavedan, medical author and surgeon in the Spanish army, put it the best,  “Chocolate is the universal medicine”.

During World War 2, the US Government recognized chocolate’s role in the nourishment and group spirt of the Allied armed forces. Many soldiers were understandably thankful for the pocket sized chocolate bars which gave them the strength to carry on. Even today three standard chocolate bars are included in US Army rations and chocolate has even been taken into space as part of the diet of US astronauts!

{quotes}Chocolate contains vitamins A, B1, C, D, E, potassuim and iron{/quotes}.  In 1990 a French doctor, Herve Robert, conducted the most extensive medical study of chocolate  proving its concoction of caffeine, theobromine, serotonin, and phenylethylamine as a tonic, is an anti-depressive agent which uplifts your mood,  makes the brain more alert, provides energy and heightens the ability to experience extreme pleasures.

In recent years, scientists have conducted extensive and lengthy surveys, proving moderate chocolate eaters (note moderate!) live longer than non chocolate eaters.  They believe it has to do with its anti-oxidents.

Psycologists admit a preference for sweetness is innate and not acquired – even new-borns suck more eagerly and faster on sweetened liquids.

With these facts easing your fear and guilt, let your imagination go wild with all the chocolate experiences you can enjoy.  Remember, everything is moderation is wize!

Give yourself an extra treat this Easter with one of the thousands of chocolate cookbooks and make your own. It is easier than you think, and your loved ones with thankyou for it! Or more decadence, share a chocolate fondue dipped with marshmellows and fruit  pieces – Yum! The pleasure would be all yours.

For more info check out: The Chocolate Society www.chocolate.co.uk and Professional School of Chocolate Arts. www.ecocoa.net