February is all about Valentine's Day sweethearts giving gifts as an expression of love and devotion. Traditionally, the usual suspects include red roses, spa day, jewellery, French wine and champagne, gourmet dinner, and chocolates. However. for some of us, the last item on that list is scary and is believed to mean automatic weight gain and breakouts. I'm here to demystify chocolate and to highlight the benefits of this awesome-tasting invention which is a long-standing symbol of romance. All you have to remember is to keep it dark, control portions and savour the taste.

All chocolate is not created equal

There are several types of chocolate, such as milk, white and dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is considered a healthy choice: it is distinguished by the percentage of cocoa solids and is made without dairy. Always choose a brand that has in excess of 70% cocoa as it is the cocoa beans along with other key ingredients such as sugar, soy lecithin to preserve texture, and flavourings such as vanilla that make the difference.

Health benefits

Dark chocolate is an antioxidant powerhouse which promotes healthy cellular tissue throughout the body. The flavonoids, which act as antioxidants, protect the body from aging caused by free radicals, which can cause damage that leads to heart disease. Flavonoids also help relax blood pressure through the production of nitric oxide, and balance certain hormones in the body. In addition, dark chocolate:

* lowers LDL which is bad cholesterol

* stimulates endorphin production, which gives a feeling of pleasure

* contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant

* contains theobromine, caffeine and other substances which are stimulants to boost metabolism

Skin specific

The numerous antioxidants present in dark chocolate help prevent free radicals from destroying the collagen and elastin in the skin, which by extension prevent discoloration and wrinkles. The cocoa butter which is extracted from the cocoa bean is also beneficial for the skin as it is a natural skin moisturiser and is full of polyphenols. Being the best naturally available concentrated fat, cocoa butter has been used in curing various skin ailments like dermatitis, prevention of stretch marks during and after pregnancy and eczema. As an active ingredient in skin care, dark chocolate:

* contains Flavanols, which protects the skin from UV rays

* has numerous anti-inflammatory antioxidants which help to reduce acne

* epicatechins present in flavonoids act as a natural anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antioxidant, which guard the skin from damage caused due to aging

* cocoa relives the stress hormones which in turn soothe the collagen in the skin preventing wrinkles and premature aging of the skin

Chocolate tasting, anyone?

Chocolate is still a high-calorie, high-fat food. Use no more than 100 grams, or about 3.5 ounces, of dark chocolate a day to get the benefits. Chocolate is a complex food with over 300 compounds and chemicals in each bite. To really enjoy and appreciate chocolate, take the time to taste it. Make it an experience. Take these steps to thoroughly enjoy the moment, all it takes is five minutes:

* it must be at room temperature

* ensure no external distractions

* clear your palate (piece of bread for example)

* look at it; good chocolate is shiny and uniform in colour

* break a piece and listen for 'the snap', the louder the snap, the higher the cocoa content

* rub it; it should feel smooth and as it melts the fragrance should be released

* smell it, close your eyes and let your smell-imagination run wild

* feel it in your mouth; good quality chocolate literally melts in your mouth

* finally, taste the flavour

* experience 'the finish'; good chocolate should never leave a bitter or unpleasant taste behind

This Valentine's Day, go in search of the best for your special someone. They will love you for thinking about them and their skin and heart health.

Jeanette La Caille-Hill is a beauty and wellness expert and qualified aesthetician. She operates the exclusive distributorship for SOTHYS, Paris professional skincare and body treatment line in Jamaica. Contact her at 536-7640 or e-mail her at sothysjamaica@ gmail.com with questions and comments.

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