THE SNACK THAT SAVES

Taking your medicine never tasted so good!

Scientists in Italy determined that the ideal dose of dark chocolate is a 100 calorie serving every 3 days. That's based on a study of nearly 5,000 people that found that the antioxidants in chocolate lower chronic inflammation by an average 17 percent - enough to cut your risk of heart disease by 26 percent.

Eating or drinking foods high in cocoa flavanols improves blood flow to the brain and may help prevent stroke and dementia. In a study of 34 adults ages 59 to 83, scientists from Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital found that those given a flavanols rich drink twice a day for one to two weeks had a significant increase in brain blood flow. The compounds may help blood vessels relax, improving circulation. While there are no labeling standards for flavonols yet, food companies are marketing "healthier" choices in dark chocolate and cocoa. A bit couldn't hurt - and may certainly help.

-NOW Magazine