Healthy Benefits of Chocolate: February’s Body Spotlight
BY JODI DIEKER
According to Capital One Shopping Statistics, Americans buy roughly 58 million pounds of chocolate and candy during the weeks of Valentine’s Day. Insane, right? But rightly so, as chocolate is an amazing treat for any occasion. Besides the incredible taste, chocolate can actually have many health benefits.
Chocolate is an excellent source of:
Vitamin B12
Niacin
Riboflavin
Vitamin E
Phosphorus
Manganese
Zinc
Calcium
Magnesium
Potassium
Iron
Antioxidants
Specifically, flavonoids & polyphenols
According to studies, chocolate has also been shown to reduce heart risks, improve mood, benefit the nervous system, reduce stress, and so much more. The link below will take you to a website, which lists the full benefits of chocolate, as well as why and how chocolate is healthy.
It should be noted that this specifically pertains to dark chocolate. Milk chocolate does not have these same benefits due to the way it is processed. It also contains added sugars and preservatives, which are not healthy for you.
With this in mind, treat your loved ones, or yourself, this Valentine’s Day to some dark chocolate! Another great and healthy way to enjoy this delicious treat is with chocolate fondue!
Ingredients:
1 Bag of Dark Chocolate Chips
A big spoonful of coconut oil
Any fruit that you would like to dip in your chocolate fondue
Directions
Place desired amount of chocolate and one scoop of coconut oil in a container that is safe with your method of heating.
The goal here is to melt the chocolate. You can microwave, heat it over the stove, or use a fondue cup with a candle underneath. Whichever way works best for you, do.
Melt chocolate till it is at a thick liquid consistency. When you drizzle it, it will not settle back into the liquid immediately, kind of like pancake batter. It shouldn’t be too liquidy, but should stir easily. If it is too thick, add more coconut oil, and heat again.
Chop fruit, dip, and enjoy!
References:
“2024 Valentine’s Day Shopping Statistics: Total Sales (by Year).” Capital One Shopping, 18 Dec. 2024, capitaloneshopping.com/research/valentines-day-shopping-statistics. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.
Nagdeve, Meenakshi. “18 Amazing Benefits of Chocolate.” Organic Facts, 2 May 2024, www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/other/health-benefits-of-chocolate.html. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.
Link for more in depth information about the benefits of chocolate:
www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/other/health-benefits-of-chocolate.html
