One of the healthiest fruits? It's chocolate, say researchers
What’s one of the healthiest fruits, delivering high levels of antioxidants, and beneficial polyphenols and flavanols? Surprisingly, it’s chocolate, say researchers.
While you may not think of chocolate as a fruit, it is derived from the cacao seed, which is described as a ‘super fruit’ by researcher Debra Miller.
When she compared the antioxidant activity in cocoa powder and fruit powders, she found the chocolate contained more polyphenols and flavanols. Chocolate also came out on top when it was compared with hot chocolate mix and fruit juices. Hot chocolate came low in the ratings, however, as the processing seemed to remove much of the goodness.
It’s worth pointing out that the research was funded by Hershey – a well-known maker of chocolate products.
(Source: Chemistry Central Journal, 2011; 5: 5).