AIRDATE: Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009
Interviewer:
Researchers continue to study the cocoa bean. And on this Valentine’s Day, the evidence is convincing—dark chocolate can be good for your oral health and overall health.
Dr. Linda Niessen of Baylor College of Dentistry has the heartening news. Welcome Dr. Niessen.
Dr. Niessen:
Thanks Debbie. Many people have heard about the ongoing research. Dark chocolate—in small amounts--- every day---MAY keep the doctor away! Let’s take a look.
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Cocoa beans contain three substances that may be healthy when processed into chocolate. They are flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins. During digestion, flavonoids and polyphenols produce antioxidants which may guard against cancer and heart disease.
“Flavonoids have been shown to have heart healthy effects.”
Lisa Harper is both a dental hygienist and registered dietitian, a rare combination.
Harper says it’s important to note that some research studies are funded by candy companies. Still, chocolate may do more good than harm if consumed in moderation.
“Phenols themselves actually help cholesterol,” she added.
For dental health, tannins may prove to be beneficial.
How do the tannins work?
Lisa Harper explains. “The tannins stop the action of the bacteria on the teeth. So it just stops the process of cavity formation.”
So what would be your recommendation for the healthiest chocolate for Valentine’s Day
“Dark chocolate. It has more tannins, flavonoids and phenols. All the good stuff.”
So if tannins inhibit that sticky plaque that forms on your teeth, you still need to limit your exposure to the sugar. If you get a big box of chocolates today, it’s best to consume the chocolate in
one sitting. The worst way to consume chocolate or any sugary treat is to snack in small amounts all day long.
(DEBBIE)
How much chocolate do we need to eat to get the health benefit?
(DR. NIESSEN)
One study showed that you only need about 1 and a half ounces of dark chocolate daily to get the protective effects of the antioxidants. Remember, chocolate is loaded with calories.
(DEBBIE)What about milk chocolate or white chocolate?
(DR. NIESSEN)
Not as good because they contain smaller amounts of tannins and flavonoids. In fact, the best chocolate to buy is the BITTERSWEET or SEMI-SWEET DARK chocolate. You can look for mini-morsels or small squares. Chocolate is about 50 percent fat. So again, small amounts and only dark chocolate if you are eating it for health reasons.
(DEBBIE)
Do you eat chocolate?
(DR. NIESSEN)
Love it! How about you?
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