Despite popular belief, chocolate is not an aphrodisiac, however it contains phenylethylamine (PEA) which is a natural substance that stimulates the same reaction as falling in love. This is essentially why chocolate has become our #1 gift giving product for valentines day and many other special occasions where love and union are recognized.We all know that solid chocolate is high in fat, just over 1/2 the calories in bittersweet, semisweet and milk chocolate come from fat, and even though cocoa butter, which is contained in chocolate, is mostly saturated fat, studies show that it does not appear to raise blood cholesterol.
This little tid bit of good news is by no means a licence to gorge yourself with chocolate, but it is comforting to know that entirely banishing this decadent treat isn't necessary. Just a reminder to me - moderation is key and dark is better!
