Chocolates are a perennially popular way to show someone you think they’re special, especially on St. Valentine’s Day! And dark chocolates may even be healthful. Here’s a repost of one of my most popular blogs about the topiclMost dark chocolates contain flavanols which are associated with modest potential benefits regarding blood flow, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, exercise, memory, cognition, skin wrinkles, and blood sugar control.

So, what’s not to like about that?

According to the experts at ConsumerLab.com, the main concerns about dark chocolate swirl around contaminants, calories, as well as some medical concerns.

• As far as contaminants, many popular dark chocolates contain cadmium, a toxic heavy metal.
• When it comes to extra calories in dark chocolate, those from cocoa butter and added sugars.
• As far as cautions, be aware that the caffeine and theobromine in cocoa products may cause side effects as well as interfere with the actions of certain drugs.
• Cocoa and chocolate products may also trigger migraines in some people and may trigger allergic contact dermatitis in nickel-sensitive individuals.
• Finally, folks with milk allergies should be aware that dark chocolate bars may contain milk.
• Despite all the cautions, calories, and possible contaminants, most experts consider an occasional small serving of cocoa and chocolate products to be generally safe, and most would agree, very enjoyable!

© Copyright WLL, INC. 2023. This blog provides a wide variety of general health information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your regular physician. If you are concerned about your health, take what you learn from this blog and meet with your personal doctor to discuss your concerns.