One Health Food that is "Food For The Gods"

The literal translation of the name given to the chocolate tree Theobroma cacao. The word Cacao
appears it may be from the Mayan (Yucatec) word chacau haa meaning hot water or chocl for hot.
Chocolate from a Maya word chokola'j meaning ' to drink chocolate together' (always a nice
thought) , as early chocolate was consumed in beverage form.
Steeped in History and associations indeed many would agree it still is a gift of the Gods from
South America. Chocholate is an exotic, aromatic, flavor with medicinal values derived from the
seeds (beans) of the pod-like fruit. Its' history goes back to the precious beverage 'xocoatl' used by
the Olmecs, Mayans and Aztecs as far back as 1500-400 BC, who considered that the beans came
from paradise and would bring wisdom and knowledge. The Spaniards brought it back to Europe in
1544. Casonova credited Cocoa for his famed charm, as he never left home without it. Lending it the
associative support as the choice food on Valentines' day. Myths and tales have been spun around
it.There are few foods that people feel as passionate about, and for many just the thought evokes a
pleasurable almost psychogalvonic response.
It has become the world's most favorite food, loaded with potent plant phytochemicals. Cocoa helps
counteract lactose intolerance by actually blocking the bloating and cramping experience by
increasing the enzyme activity of lactase by 500-600%. Choc-full of more than 400 substances such
as , the highest level of plant source polyphenol antioxidants the same as found in grape skins
(which inhibit free reactive tissue/cellular damaging molecules) , Vitamins (vitamin A, thiamine,
riboflavin and niacin), minerals [Potassium, Magnesium,Cooper,Calcium, and Iron], weak stimulants
(caffeine, and theobromine), Tryptophan, Seratonin, Phenylethylamine (related to amphetamines),
and anadamide . These last three are neuro psychoactive compounds associated with good feelings
and our ability to stay alert, as well as pay attention, that stimulate the same reaction in the body as
'falling-in-love'. Which easily explains the pleasurable effects of consuming chocolate. Indeed some
studies have shown that women are more susceptible to the effects of Phenylethylamine and
Serotonin than men. Just the exotic aroma of choclate stimulates the immune systems' production of
secretory immunoglobulin A ( an important body antiviral defence). A cup of hot cocoa is effective
for curbing coughs.This elixir of the Gods has also been found to contain stearic acid (a fatty acid)
which doesn't affect cholesterol, flavonoids which reduce the tendency of blood to clot, and
decrease the stickiness of platelets , as well as making the blood vessels more flexible, thus
lowering the risk of a heart attack. This doesn't show us yet that dark chocolate (70% at least) eaten
on a regular basis would reduce the risk of heart disease. A typical dark chocolate bar contains
significantly fewer calories and carbs than milk chocolate. We do know that eating too much can
lead to weight gain, which might cancel out any beneficial effects. Research suggests that chocolate
should not be incriminated with causing acne, migraines, or cavities. Though for some it might
aggravate nervous tension and anxiety due to the contained stimulants, and since it contains high
amounts of L-Arginine up set the balance with another amino acid Lysine which may promote an
outbreak of Herpes. Aside from those concerns Its really a healthy treat.
I prefer a single piece of high quality dark chocolate from Belgium, France, Madagascar, or
Venezuela and from domestic brands of 70% or higher. Enjoy, and maybe with some eye candy as
'Like Water for Chocolate' or 'Chocolat', together with a significant other on a comfortable sofa.

One of my favorite recipes: Castillian Thick Hot Chocolate

 INGREDIENTS
10-12 oz semisweet dark chocolate grated,
( if Cocoa powder unsweetened 1/2 cup is used add sugar or
blue agave)
2 1/4 cups water or milk
1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in a little cold water

METHOD
Heat the grated chocolate with the water or milk in a saucepan.
Stir to mix thoroughly

When it comes to a light boil, add the dissolved cornstarch. Bring back to a low boil 2-3 times
whisking vigorously and removing from the heat each time it starts to bubble to prevent the aromatic
mixture from boiling over or burning. Ladle into cups. You may add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon,
some add only a dash of cayenne and only real whipped cream. You may also try using a mix of
semisweet and unsweetened cocoa. Enjoy!

Wishing you Health and Wellness,

Dr.C