DARK CHOCOLATE- A TEMPTING DRUG

Swati R. Dhande*, Dhanashree V. Lokegaonkar and Vilasrao J. Kadam

ABSTRACT

Dark chocolate is a very complex food and scientists continue to investigate it in order to unlock its potential benefits and secrets. Cocoa and cocoa derivatives have recently attracted the attention of many investigators and general public because of their potential nutritional, medicinal and mystical properties. Studies have shown that dietary supplementation with flavonoid rich cocoa and dark chocolate may exert a protective and preventive effect on human health. Dark chocolate consumption plays an important role in reducing the risk of chronic conditions including the cardiovascular diseases, central nervous system, diabetes and immune system related diseases. Some of the identified benefits of flavonoid rich dark chocolate include its antioxidant properties, improved endothelial function, decrease in blood pressure and modulation of the immune system. Dark chocolate has also been reported to have aphrodisiac and mood lifting effects. New studies have claimed that dark chocolate could improve the brain function and help keep Dementia and Alzheimer at bay. Cocoa polyphenols in dark chocolate also show anticariogenic activity and thus prevent tooth decay. Maintaining the overall health has become crucial in today‟s world. This review article mentions all the beneficial effects of cocoa polyphenols in dark chocolate thus stating that dark chocolate is not just a mere delicacy, but also an effective tempting drug.

Keywords: Flavonoids, dark chocolate, antioxidant property, human health.