This dark, delightful and sinful phenomena known as chocolate has ruled the hearts, minds and palates of all those who have had a chance close encounter with it.

The people of the ancient Aztec and Mayan civilizations were among the first to discover the magic of the cocoa bean. They used it to make a warm beverage which they called “chocolatl”. So, precious was this drink that it was offered only to rulers, priests, rich merchants and decorated soldiers.

In fact, the plant has often been referred to as “food for the Gods” in ancient Aztec writings. The magic of the cocoa bean reached Europe only in 1502. Ever since its “rediscovery” by the western world, chocolates have taken on symbolic significance.

Chocolate has been linked to power, religion, and romance. Chocolate is still revered as an icon of love and devotion. This belief can again be traced back to the Aztec emperor Montezuma and was strongly seconded by one of history’s best known lovers Giacomo Casanova.

Modern research shows that chocolate helps release “feel good” hormones in the body, which trigger reactions that mimic the feelings associated with being in love. I guess that is why it is such a popular gift on Valentine’s day.

Now it has found that eating a bit of dark chocolate everyday can actually prove to be beneficial for ones overall health. The flavinoids contained in dark chocolate is rich in anti-oxidants which help to keep cancer at bay. They also help to keep the heart healthier. It has also been proved that dark chocolates help to lower both blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Recent research has uncovered a new side of this dark miraculous substance. Though chocolate lovers all over the world swear by the fact that consumption of dark chocolate can elicit feelings of general well-being, euphoria and romance it is becoming evident that eating chocolates is not the only way to have similar experiences. Now one can indulge in a chocolate bath. There are several different kinds on offer. Besides relaxing the body it makes the skin smooth and glossy.

According to research chocolate contains polyphenol, a substance that rids the body of the active oxygen which plays an important role in the aging process. So, in a way they can be considered to be a fountain of youth.

Though much has been said about the benefits of eating chocolates dietitians caution against over indulgence. Secondly, one needs to remember that the darker the chocolate the better it is for you. So, try avoiding white chocolate and candy bars.

Related Articles:

• A Sugar More Sweet
• Summer Chillers
• Fruity Nutrients: The Best Kind!
• Tea: Black or White?
• Smart Snacking
• Dry Fruit Treats
• Anti-Oxidants: Nature’s Warriors
• Tomatoes: Friends or Foes?
• Kitchen woes
• One Potted Plant
• Foods to Turn You On
• The romance of rain and solitude
• Garlic: Aromatic Cure
• Paying Hard for Weight Loss
• Allergy to Alcohol
• Galloping Gooseberry
• Exercise & Osteoporosis
• 5 Common Threats to Romance
• Almonds: Balm for Believers
• Say Cheese!
• Chutnies by Choice
• Eating Out: Getting What You Pay For
• Shared Recipes
• Diwali Mithai
• What stars love to eat
• Mouthwatering starters