Fast facts on chocolate
Here are some key points about chocolate. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.
Chocolate consumption has been associated with conditions such as diabetes, coronary heart disease and hypertension.
Chocolate has been lauded by some experts for its antioxidant content.
Some studies have suggested chocolate could lower cholesterol levels and prevent memory decline.
Chocolate contains a large number of calories.
The high sugar content in chocolate can lead to tooth decay.
The average American consumes around 4.5 kg of chocolate each year.
Chocolate contains flavanoids and flavanols, such as anthocyanidin and epicatechins.
The darker the chocolate, the more flavanoids and flavanols it contains.