Milk chocolate is produced from the cacao bean. Used for thousands of years by native people in Central America, chocolate was spread around the world when the Spanish brought it back to Europe. It is estimated that 3 billion lbs. of chocolate is consumed by Americans annually, with more than 60 percent of that chocolate eaten between meals. Milk chocolate is loved for its sweet taste and health benefits.
Dental Protection
Milk chocolate contains phosphate, which protects teeth from decay.
Antidepressant
Serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of well-being, is in milk chocolate.
Stimulation
Phenylethylamine and theobromine are chemicals found in milk chocolate that act as a mild stimulant.
Vitamins and Minerals
Milk chocolate is high in vitamins B1, B2, D and E. It also contains potassium and magnesium.
Low Blood Pressure
Flavonoids in chocolate cause the body to produce nitric oxide, which lowers blood pressure.
Antioxidants
Milk chocolate contains antioxidants that boost the immune system.
Low Cholesterol
Eating milk chocolate can lower levels of LDL cholesterol--known as the unhealthy kind--and raise HDL cholesterol levels.
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