When you get come out of a massage session with me, you will generally find a glass of water and a piece of chocolate waiting for you.  Some women feel the chocolate is decadent, and delight in the treat.  Yes, eating chocolate is a delightful experience.  However, there are good reasons for eating it as well.  It turns out that eating chocolate is good for your health.

Chocolate, especially dark chocolate,  is reported to be rich in flavonoids, making it an excellent antioxidant~~even better than tea, red wine, or apples.  Recent studies suggest that it raises HDL levels (the good choloesterol), can help prevent blood clots, and regulates blood pressure.  Another study showed that eating chocolate can help prevent preeclampsia, a serious condition that develops during the late stages of pregnancy, showing a sudden rise in blood pressure, excessive weight gain, and fluid retention.

Chocolate also contains phenylethylamine, a neurotransmitter that is realeased during emotional euphoria…it makes us feel good. It also contains anandamide, which helps make us feel more relaxed and less anxious. 

Of course, all the nutritionists tell us to not overdo it on chocolate and continue to eat lots of fruits and vegetables. So the next time you sit down with the intention to devour a bunch of truffles, try eating them with strawberries or cherries.