The dark side of chocolate offers health benefits

Dark chocolate may actually improve blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing hypertension. Cocoa beans are naturally filled with flavonols, an antioxidant-rich compound that promotes healthy circulation and healthy blood vessels while lowering blood pressure.

Dark chocolate may also reduce LDL, or bad, cholesterol. As an added benefit, dark chocolate boosts normal responses to insulin to keep blood sugar levels down, which can ward off diabetes.

Of course, most people already think that chocolate is relaxing and mood-lifting; now current research confirms this. Sweet creamy chocolate stimulates the chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters. Serotonin and endorphins are the two most noted. Serotonin is thought to make people calm and relaxed while endorphins help people feel good.

But beware, all this good news applies only to dark chocolate. White chocolate and Dutch chocolate do not contain the healthy flavonols.

Give dark chocolate a try. Look for Nestle Chocolatier in the baking aisle or check out super-rich dark chocolate bars such as Green & Black's- or Dagoba- organic chocolate bars in your favorite Hy-Vee HealthMarket. For more health tips and delicious chocolate recipes, visit Hy-VeeHealth.Com.

I'm Fondue of You Sweeten Your Sweetheart's Heart

All you need:

3/4 cup fat-free evaporated milk

1/4 cup fresh-brewed coffee

1 bag (10-ounce) Nestle Chocolatier 62% baking chocolate morsels

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For dipping: fresh fruit, dried apricots, cake and/or pretzels

All you do:

Heat milk, coffee and chocolate in a small, heavy-duty saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla. Transfer to a fondue pot; place over low heat. To serve, dip dippers into melted chocolate. Stir occasionally. Serves 22 (2-tbsp servings).

Nutrition Facts: Super-rich in heart-health flavonols plus 70 calories, 0 g fat, 8 g carbs, 4.5 g fiber, 10 mg sodium.