Myth: The fat in chocolate will raise cholesterol.
Fact: Saturated fats normally are what increase cholesterol in our bodies. Stearic acid, which is the main saturated fat in chocolate (specifically cocoa butter), does not raise blood cholesterol levels. A study where subjects ate a 1.4 oz. chocolate bar instead of a high carbohydrate snack found that the chocolate bar did not raise low-density lipoprotein levels (LDL or "bad cholesterol") but actually increased high-density lipoprotein levels (HDL or "good cholesterol").
Myth: Chocolate doesn't have many vitamins or minerals.
Fact: While chocolate milk has more sugar, it also has higher levels of zinc, potassium, copper and magnesium than plain milk. Solid chocolate is a major source of copper and magnesium. Copper helps the body use iron and aids in the development of connective tissue, blood vessels, and skin. Magnesium is part of the bone structure. It also has a role in the nervous system and in the break down of protein. Children will get even more of these valued nutrients when offered chocolate milk because they tend to drink two-thirds more chocolate milk versus plain milk.
Myth: Chocolate is high in caffeine.
Fact: Contrary to what many believe, chocolate is not high in caffeine. The amount of caffeine in a typical 1.4 oz. bar or an 8 oz. glass of chocolate milk is equivalent to a cup of decaffeinated coffee with 6 mg caffeine. An ounce of bittersweet chocolate has more, from 5-35 mg caffeine and 1 ounce unsweetened baking chocolate has 35 mg. These levels are all well below the 140 mg that is in a cup of brewed coffee. Stimulant effects of caffeine can be initiated after consuming 150-200 mg, but this varies from person to person.
Myth: Chocolate causes cavities.
Fact: Candy alone does not cause cavities. Susceptible teeth, dental plaque, and food cause cavities. Cocoa and chocolate actually have the ability to offset the acid-producing potential of the sugar they contain. Milk chocolate has a high content of protein, calcium, phosphate and other minerals, which have protective effects on tooth enamel. Also, since it contains fat, milk chocolate clears the mouth relatively faster than other candies, so milk chocolate may be less cavity causing. Remember that the best way to prevent cavities is to regularly use fluoride, practice proper oral hygiene, and visit your dentist.
Myth: Chocolate causes acne.
Fact: Studies by the Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the US Naval Academy found that acne is not related to chocolate consumption. It is related to hormonal changes (testosterone) that create activity of the skin's oil glands.
Myth: Many suffer from chocolate allergies
Fact: A true chocolate allergy is uncommon and difficult to prove. A reaction that some people have associated with chocolate could be caused by other ingredients in chocolate products. If you suspect a food allergy or sensitivity, see a board-certified allergist for a diagnosis.
Myth: Carob is better
Fact: A carob bar actually has the same amount of fat and calories as the same size milk chocolate bar.
Myth: It is safe to feed my dog a little chocolate
Fact: Chocolate is very fatal to dogs. Although it takes quite a bit of chocolate to actually poison a dog, even a little taste can make a canine pretty darn sick. Baker's chocolate, however, which is like a shot of tequila compared to a wine cooler, is much more toxic in smaller amounts than other types of chocolate. Never leave any chocolate where your dog can get to it. Just like you don't leave matches out around a child, the same is true for a dog and chocolate. They just don't mix. If your dog becomes ill and you even suspect that he may have gotten into some chocolate, make sure you call your veterinarian right away!
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