Valentine's Day has just come and gone, and the chocolate heart you received has also been devoured, leaving nothing but the box and that guilty feeling. Fear not, as scientists and giant chocolate manufacturers around the world are on the verge of proving that chocolates are indeed the new “super food”. Everyone loves chocolates and with Easter just around the corner, there are sales of chocolate eggs and rabbits popping up all over stores. I don't know about you, but, there's something so therapeutic about biting the ears off a chocolate rabbit. Letting your frustrations out on an edible mammal isn't the only thing great about chocolates; it's apparently good for you too! Chocolates - despite what Willy Wonka claims - comes from a plant based fruit, so there should be many useful nutrients that are passed through the fruit and into your body. The most important amongst these are antioxidants which are created by plants in order to survive in harsh environments. Antioxidants are needed in our bodies for these same reasons as it can slow cell destruction by neutralising free radicals that can cause cell damage. Since we can't live in individual sterile bubbles we need all the help we can get, especially from chocolates, right? 

The cacao plant (the plant that chocolate beans come from) contain powerful natural antioxidants such as flavonoids, procyanidin, catchins and phenols, which prevent plaque build-up and oxidation of the blood that can clog arteries and boosts the immune system , thus reducing the risk of heart attacks and cancer. But don't rush out to buy those chocolate bars just yet because not all chocolates contain large quantities of these nutrients. Milk chocolate has the lowest antioxidant level, while dark chocolate has higher levels, depending on the percentage of cocoa used.  

Like all foods, chocolate must be portioned and taken in moderation. Even though it is reported to contain many healthy nutrients and antioxidants and that it's quite delicious, it still has saturated fats and very high in calories. Chocolate lovers need not fret as a little chocolate can go a long way.  

So, whether it comes in a heart shaped box, an Easter bunny, or tossed in chocolate chip cookies, dark chocolate in moderation is good for any season. Let's all eat healthy and live balanced lives.