Chocolate

Chocolate made from the cocoa bean has been with us for thousands of years. Today we know chocolate as three main types. The difference is in the amount of cocoa solids they contain. Dark chocolate has the highest, varying between 35% to 70% or more, while milk chocolate has at least 10% and the addition of milk solids. White chocolate is in fact not chocolate at all as it contains cocoa butter, not cocoa solids.

The discovery of dark chocolate’s health benefits has been promoted widely. It helps to prevent bad cholesterol, is full of powerful antioxidants and recently found to ease persistent coughs. These are just a few of the health and nutritional benefits bestowed on chocolate.

Chocolate is also a natural aphrodisiac possessing a lustful seductive quality that marries well with Valentine's Day, a day dedicated to expressions of love and the number one holiday for chocolate sales. Over one billion dollars worth of chocolate is sold during the time leading up to Valentine's, and men make 75% of those purchases.

A 20-gram (.70 ounce) square of premium rich dark chocolate has only 100 calories and provides that small indulgence of affordable luxury, so enjoy every last bite.

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