Chocolate for Health!

Eating chocolate might actually be good for you. Chocolate has been around for centuries and has been used for everything from currency to medicine. Researchers have discovered that chocolate has many beneficial compounds for our bodies.

Chocolate’s scientific name is Theobroma Cacao. Its literal translations is “food of the gods”

Chocolate contains vitamins A, B1, C, D and E as well as potassium, sodium, iron, and fluorine.

Harvard researchers say chocolate consumption may help us live longer.

Chocolate contains antioxidants especially phenols and flavonoids which can help prevent atherosclerosis.

Dark chocolate has four times the antioxidant power found in green tea. Chocolate has been said to raise serotonin levels in the body which is the feel good hormone.

Chocolate is best enjoyed in moderation.

Creamed filled or caramel filled chocolates can pack on many more calories.

Consider reducing calories by having chocolate covered foods like strawberries or pretzels.

Chocolate Dream Cake

3/4 c. unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. boiling water
1 pkg. (16 oz.0 angel food cake mix
1 1/4 c. water 1 Tbsp. instant coffee
1 1/2 c. fat-free milk
1 pkg. (1 1/3 oz.) whipped topping mix
1 pkg. (1.4 oz.) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a 15” x 10” jelly-roll pan with wax paper. Whisk together the cocoa, sugar, and boiling water. Cool to lukewarm.

2. Prepare the cake mix per package directions, using the water and adding the cocoa mixture. Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top looks dry. Invert onto a large rack. Remove the pan and wax paper, and allow the cake to cool.

3. In a medium bowl, dissolve the coffee in the milk. Add the whipped topping and pudding mixes. With a mixer, beat on low speed until moistened. Beat at high speed until soft peaks form. Chill for 5 minutes.

4. Cut the cake crosswise into thirds. Cover each with topping, then stack. Chill for 2 hours.

Makes 10 servings.
Per serving: 249 cal, 2 g fat,
1 mg chol, 2 g fiber,
396 mg sodium

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