Chocoholics time to celebrate! (December 2007)
Research shows that hot cocoa packs more of an antioxidant punch than green tea, black tea, or red wine. However, typical cocoa mixes use a treated form of cocoa that has fewer antioxidants. Look for gourmet mixes with natural (untreated) cocoa, or make your own with store-bought natural cocoa, stevia and milk.
Dark chocolate has been shown to reduce blood pressure slightly so it may actually be healthy for your heart. Don’t gorge though. The study’s participants ate about 30 calories worth each day which is the amount found in 1 ½ Special Dark Hershey’s Kisses.