Super foods: facts & fiction

Dark chocolate

[Photo by Pauline D. Loh/China Daily]

This is probably everybody's favorite super food. Next time you munch a piece of chocolate, skip the guilt and enjoy it - it's good for you.

Natural dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that come from the cacao beans it is made from. The higher the percentage of cocoa solids, the more antioxidants it contains.

Studies claim that eating a little dark chocolate two or three times each week can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation and help prevent hardening of the arteries.

Dark chocolate also makes you feel good, as it contains a chemical that mimics the feel-good feeling of falling in love. Amor!

Contact the writer at paulined@chinadaily.com.cn.

Fan Zhen contributed to the story.