-Did you know chocolate has been heralded for it's value as an energy source? Think of it this way: a single chocolate chip provides sufficient food energy for an adult to walk 150 feet; hence it would take about 35 chocolate chips to go a mile or 875,000 to go on an around the world hike!
-U.S. Consumers eat 2.8 billion pounds of chocolate annually.
- Although chocolate is not an aphrodisiac, as the ancient Aztecs beleived, Chocolate contains Phenylethamine, a natural substance that is reputed to stimulate the same reaction as falling in love. Hence, heartbreak and lonliness are excuses for chocolate overindulgance.
- It is reported that Napolean carried chocolate with him on his military campaigns and always ate it when he needed quick energy.
peanuts
Peanuts are unique whole foods that naturally contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, which has been linked to lowering blood cholesterol levels. Studies adding even small amounts to the diet have shown a 14% decrease in the "bad" cholesterol. These legumes (related to peas and beans) are rich in Niacin (B3) which is instrumental in increasing "good" cholesterol. They are also very high in quality protein and an excellent source of Vitamin E, an important antioxidant for heart disease and cancer prevention. Peanuts are rich in good dietary fiber which promotes overall bowel health and aids in the prevention of colon cancer.