It is no secret that the dark side of chocolates is actually healthy one.
Emerging evidence from several studies suggests that eating chocolates is not only delicious but also good for our brain and heart. Chocolates can potentially lower blood pressure and cholesterol and reduce stroke risk. And much of chocolate’s nutrition comes from a compound called flavanols.
According to the Mars Center for Cocoa Health Science, flavanols are a distinct group of naturally occurring compounds that can be found in a variety of food products such as tea, red wine, blueberries and raw cocoa.
Cocoa flavanols are plant-derived bioactives from cocoa beans. Cocoa is an especially rich source of flavanols and the type and mixture of flavanols and procyanidins found in cocoa is unique. Many studies show cocoa flavanols have a range of proven health benefits, including improved circulation and cardiovascular health, the research arm of the makers of leading chocolate brands such as Twix, and Snickers, said.
But do we actually get this nutrition from antioxidant activities and from flavanols of cocoa when we eat a chocolate cake or a chocolate cookie? It may depend on the preparation as there is a risk of loss of nutrition during food processing and baking. So finding a way to retain chocolate’s nutrition in baking could help people indulge in the delicious muffins, cakes and cookies with less guilt.
Preventing Nutrition Loss
In a study published in the Journal of Food Science, scientists from The Hershey Company -- a global leader in chocolate and sugar confectionery -- and US-based Brunswick Laboratories showed that in chocolate cakes, antioxidant activity and cocoa flavanols could be largely retained by using a combination of baking powder and baking soda.
With this method, over 85 percent of the cocoa flavanols were preserved in recipes for chocolate frosting, hot cocoa drink and chocolate cookies, the findings showed.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Healthy Food - An Attempt to Meet Diners' Desire
Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations in 2015, was about "Good Health and Well-being". This could be said to be an eye-opener and the source of making people aware of maintaining their health, which became more pronounced due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Consuming healthy food, since then, has become a significant - if not imperative - element in lives of almost everyone. And this healthy and nutritious food is also playing a significant role in the success of restaurants. Diners are now becoming more particular about the food they consume, making the F&B outlets offer a diverse and appealing menu of healthy food options. Ashok Malkani tries to evaluate how the restaurants and chefs are meeting this desire for nutritious food by customers and what are some of the healthy food options.
Combating Protein Deficiency
In a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of protein deficiency among the Indian populace, the Poultry Federation of India (PFI) with support from USA Poultry and Eggs Export Council (USAPEEC) recently hosted a session held on 18th May 2024 in New Delhi, which convened leading industry experts to underscore the indispensable role of poultry protein in addressing India's nutritional challenges.
Newest Beer Chugging Spot KLING Brewery
Guzzle down the stress of a long workday with exceptionally crafted beers soon to be launched at Bengaluru's newest offering - KLING Brewery.
Caffe Allora Expands Presence
Caffe Allora unveils its latest venture with the grand opening of its sixth outlet at Phoenix Mall of Asia, Bangalore.
"No matter how many goals you have achieved, one should also set their sights on a better, higher one"
Hemant Yadav, Head - F&B Operations, Kylin Experience
Summer Menu Fiesta At Vietnom! - Saket DLF Avenue, New Delhi
Step into VietNom, where every corner is a canvas painted with the essence of Vietnam's charm and allure. It is indeed a sanctuary where every detail whispers tales of Vietnam's rich culture and natural beauty.
For Our Plates and Palates
Nowadays, we keep on hearing about power food or health food, though I doubt whether many who use these smart jargons have a clear idea about what can quantify as power food or health food. Power foods contain some magical nutrients, which have made them the hot new superstars on the health horizon.
Cool Mocktails are Hot!
They are colourful, they are fruity, they are sweet, they can be tangy, and overall, they are extremely refreshing, especially in a tiring scorching summer day.
Melon - Versatile to Beat the Heat
Low in calories and fat but high in essential vitamins, minerals and water content, melons are ideal choices to beat the heat. Add this versatile fruit in your diet and stay well nourished as it will keep you hydrated.
Summer Menu Fiesta
Whether you are in a mood to have a bountiful of fresh summer W produce or a fusion of Mexican Indian delights, or a fresh take on summer coolers, there is something for every palate in chefs' well-curated summer menus.