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Healthy Skin is So Sweet
Chocolate is one of beauty's tastiest secrets.
by Michelle Gibeault Traub, R.D.
Chocolate's antioxidants are powerful in fighting the environmental stressors that impact the skin and lead to aging. By eating foods that are rich in flavanoids, you arm your skin with natural defenses that help to maintain collagen and reduce sun damage.1 A small German study even showed that subjects given a high flavanol cocoa product had improved skin texture, along with increased skin density, thickness, and hydration.2 Eating chocolate works its magic from the inside out, but applying it to the skin appears to be beneficial too.
Myth Has No Merit
Chocolate lovers rejoice. In spite of the myth that chocolate causes acne, the rich substance has made its way to the ultimate relaxation resource - the spa. Spas and salons throughout the country now offer massages, body scrubs, manicures and pedicures all with the beautifying benefits of chocolate. According to spa owner, Howard Kohlenberg, "Chocolate is very rejuvenating for your skin. It is moisturizing and good for cell renewal." 3 Applying the sticky substance to the body may seem a little unusual, but Leah Porter of the Chocolate Manufacturers Association reminds us that "The mid-19th century is when you first started seeing cocoa butter being used as a moisturizer." 3
Chocolate's Other Bountiful Benefits
As the quintessential comfort food, it is no surprise that chocolate's impact goes beyond mere beauty. Dr. Alan Hirsch, neurological director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation notes, "Chocolate food can impact upon different parts of the brain because it has substances that produce feelings of euphoria." 3 Blogger, Anita Grant (a.k.a, "ingredient junkie") also praises chocolate for the "feel good" chemicals it contains. She has been using cocoa powder for homemade skin treatments since she was a child. Eager to experience chocolate skin care, but not ready for a visit to the spa? Try Anita's own recipe for a Chocolate Honey Face Scrub.4
Watch for February's issue of "circle of health" where we will explore the beauty benefits of calcium.
Resources for the Chocolate Lover
Chocolate Manufacturers Association
"a little of what you fancy does you good"- Blog including Chocolate Beauty Recipes
References
- Stuppy, Pamela, MS, RD, LD. Nurturing Skin from the Inside Out. Today's Dietitian. November 2006. retrieved 1/5/07 LINK
- Daniells, Stephen. Flavanol-rich Chocolate Could Improve Skin from Within. 5/16/06 Nutraingredients.com retrieved 1/5/07 LINK
- Jonas-Hain, Samantha. New Chocolate Treatments Are Beautylicious. Foxnews.com 7/18/05. retrieved 1/5/07 LINK
- Grant, Anita. Blog Entry "a little of what you fancy does you good" posted 5/7/06, retrieved 1/5/07 LINK
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Published by circle of health (formerly nw | health and bone)
Copyright © 2007 Thompson Brands. All rights reserved.
circle of health does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. circle of health compiles information from a variety of public sources to provide individuals with the tools to actively and naturally promote bone health and other related women's health issues. We encourage the broad use of the web to provide additional information. Consult your physician or other health professional in regard to specific medical conditions. |
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