Chocolate Can be a Healthy Valentine's Day Treat!

Chocolate contains over 300 active ingredients, many of which are thought to have health promoting properties. Chocolate contains antioxidants that help prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer. The antioxidants in chocolate are called flavonoids and polyphenols, and are the same compounds found in red wine, green tea, fruits and vegetables. Chocolate does contain fat, but the fat in dark chocolate is a healthy type of fat. It's mostly a saturated vegetable fat that is similar to olive and canola oils. Chocolate contains important vitamins and nutrients such as magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins A. C, D, and E.

Chocolate contains small amounts of a chemical called phenylethylamine (PEA) that known as a happy brain chemical. PEA is highest during times of joy and love. Chocolate also contains the chemicals phenethylmine and theobromine, have the same effect on the brain as some antidepressants, offering a rush of serotonin and a calming influence. Chocolate can boost endorphin levels in the brain. Endorphins are brain chemicals that induce a feeling of happiness and elation. These chemicals are responsible for what's sometimes called "runners high". That feeling of calmness and euphoria felt during peak physical exertion. Chocolate contains acylethanolamines, chemicals that may have a similar effect on the brain as marijuana causing calmness and happiness.