The Lighter Side of Dark Chocolate: Take it to Heart

George Rapitis, MS. Nutritionist

Format ISBN Price   Color (8.5x11) 9781434302311 $ 14.99

Have high blood pressure? Try a square of dark chocolate.  Worried about cardiovascular disease? Snack on  some dark chocolate chips.
From the time of the Aztec Indians, the cocoa bean has been cherished as a "food of the gods."  They may have been on to something because in this book, George Rapitis shows how dark chocolate contains powerful flavonoids that can help promote heart health. This book is filled with delicious recipes that are low in calories and filled with antioxidants coming from dark chocolate. 
George Rapitis is a seasoned nutritionist who holds a Masters degree in holistic nutrition from Clayton College of Natural Health, Bachelors of Science degree in dietetics from Madonna University, and culinary arts certificate from Schoolcraft College in Livonia, Michigan. George has coauthored books such as "The Healthy Pregnancy Cookbook", and "Ask the Nutritionists".  George currently provides nutrition counseling to patients at the Ford-Tel medical center in Dearborn Heights, Michigan.

      The effects of chocolate on cardiovascular health have always been a matter of debate because of the high saturated fat content along with its effects on glucose, lipids, and body weight.  However, recent studies have shown that the various nutrients and chemicals in dark chocolate can potentially favor cardiovascular health.   Some of the heart protective nutrients in dark chocolate include vitamins (A, B1, C, D, and E), essential minerals, and phytochemicals.  In addition, the nutrients in dark chocolate promote cardiovascular performance because of their antioxidative effect.  Dark chocolate contains antioxidants called flavonoids and polyphenols, both of which have may have the ability to help lower blood pressure and dilate blood vessels.