Wednesday, 17 July 2013 11:45

The Science Behind the Chocolate's Health Benefits

Do you feel a sense of euphoria after eating chocolate? Learn why certain cocoa is extremely beneficial.
Many people report a feeling of well-being - even euphoria - when they consume a bar of chocolate.

A recent study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology explains why.

Cocoa contains natural chemicals that can actually increase calmness and content. But beware... any old mug of hot cocoa can’t bestow Nirvana.

The key factor, according to researchers, is the amount of polyphenols contained in the cocoa.

Learn the facts on chocolate's benefits from Harvard researcher, Dr. Eric Ding.

Additional Info

  • Segment Number: 5
  • Audio File: naturally_savvy/1329ns3e.mp3
  • Featured Speaker: Eric Ding
  • Guest Bio: Eric L. Ding is an epidemiologist, nutritionist, and faculty scientist at Harvard School of Public Health. He is also founder and Director of the Campaign for Cancer Prevention (with 6 million members), Director of Epidemiology with MicroClinic International, and a Soros Fellow.



    He was noted for his key role in leading a two-year-long investigation into the controversial drug safety and adverse metabolic risks of Vioxx® that drew national attention. Highlighted and priority published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) as chief author, he was also recognized and named in the New York Times and USA Today.
  • Length (mins): 10
  • Waiver Received: Yes
  • Host: Andrea Donsky, RHN and Lisa Davis, MPH