Chocolate Story Oh...you Sweet Heart By Francine Milford In a recent study by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), it was found that polyphenols-which occur naturally in cocoa-may help in maintaining the health of your heart. What does that mean to chocoholics like me? That means that there is now evidence that chocolate acts like an antioxidant. The consumption of chocolate can help reduce “bad” cholesterol, it can help to prevent damage to body tissues, and it even helps to reduce the formation of blood clots. Nibbling on chocolate morsels can also act as an anti-cancer ally. And as every menopausal woman can attest to, eating chocolate can ease PMS symptoms and cravings. A plain chocolate milk bar has nearly 10 times more calcium than a medium-sized apple! Of course, this is all done in moderation. After all, too much of anything, even chocolate, can have adverse effects on your body and your health. How much is just right? As little as 22 grams a day. (that's one standard chocolate bar). So if your wondering what to get that sweet heart on your list this Valentine’s Day, try some heart-saving chocolates... now if we can only figure out what to do with the calories!

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