What is chocolate? Is it heaven’s gift during a rough week or is it just another reason to hit the gym? Well, Feb. 14 has finally arrived and whether you have been dreading this year’s Single Awareness Day or you’re hyped up for a day with your sweet valentine, you should know that you don’t need to stay away from chocolate. In fact, Katherine Booking, MS, RD and a dietician for the website “Appetite for My Health,” dispels several myths about chocolate.
“MYTH 1: Chocolate is loaded with cholesterol-raising fat.” According to Booking, research has shown that the saturated fat in chocolate doesn’t raise cholesterol levels the same way that other types of saturated fats do because it contains stearic acid.
“MYTH 2: Chocolate causes acne.” An extensive review in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Minkin W, et al., 1970) concluded that “diet plays no role in acne treatment in most patients… even large amounts of chocolate have not clinically exacerbated acne.” Research continues to show that cocoa has a beneficial impact on skin, such as “improved photo protection, dermal blood circulation, and skin hydration.”
Don’t be afraid to indulge in a little bit of chocolate every once in a while. Just be sure to eat in moderation!
The ASUCD Student Health and Wellness Committee (SHAWC) aims to promote and address important health-related issues on campus. We serve as a liaison between ASUCD and campus health organizations, clubs, and resources. If you have SHAWCing suggestions, questions or tips please e-mail us at shawcucd@gmail.com and/or like our Facebook page!
