Most of the bad reputation chocolate has been given is based on the fact it contains saturated fat and caffeine. The level of saturated fat in chocolate is due to the presence of cocoa butter, which increases blood cholesterol levels. A regular cup of coffee contains one hundred thirty to one hundred fifty milligrams of caffeine whereas a one ounce piece of chocolate contains only six milligrams. At this rate, it's better to give up coffee than chocolate. In a study by Holland's National Institute of Public Health and Environment, chocolate was found to have four times the antioxidants of green tea.
Catechins are powerful antioxidants in the prevention of cancer and heart disease.
One hundred milligrams of black tea contain 13.9 milligrams of catechins. The same weight of dark chocolate has 53.5 milligrams of catechins. Chocolate also provides endorphins, which act like natural opiates in treating chronic pain. Endorphins also bring on a relaxed state of mind, enable more oxygen to reach our inner blood supply and even improve our memory. Seratonin, a neurotransmitter is found in chocolate and works in our body as an anti-depressant.