Registered dietitian Theresa Stahl shares her insights on healthy eating, portion-control tips, power-packed recipes, and food reviews.

Since many people will be celebrating Easter with chocolate this weekend, how about a few fantastic chocolate facts.   At a recent seminar on the health benefits of chocolate, Dr. Debra Miller, PhD, RD of the Hershey Company, laid out the latest research about chocolate and health.  And the news is very delicious. 

So this weekend, you can have your chocolate and eat it too.  Here a few interesting chocolate tidbits:

• There are over 700 identified compounds in chocolate. Some important compounds are flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants.  Studies have shown that individuals consuming the highest amounts of flavonoids have a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and reduced blood pressure. 
• Particularly interesting flavonoids in cocoa /cacao are called flavanols, which have been shown to help lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol and improve blood flow. 
• Dark chocolate has the highest amount of healthy flavanols. Higher levels of cocoa/cacao most often indicate a higher amount of heart-healthy compounds. 

Remember moderation is always important, especially during a holiday, when treats flow freely.  And savor every bite and you¿ll be satisfied with less.

I hope you have a happy and healthy Easter.