Why Chocolate Studies Are a Headache

New Study Highlights Score Of Information Surrounding Chocolate

By RADHA CHITALE
ABC News Medical Unit

The lore surrounding chocolate -- from its use as an aphrodisiac among the Aztecs to its mood elevating properties -- can seem as complex and variable as the confection itself. Scientific studies, however, may provide a prudent excuse to indulge in the sweet treat.

The medical lore surrounding chocolate can seem as complex and variable as the confection itself.

(Getty Images)

Decades of research have shown that chocolate has several beneficial physiological effects, most notably on heart health.

A new study presented today at the International Headache Congress meeting in Philadelphia suggested that cocoa powder has a healing effect on inflamed cells related to migraine headaches in rats.

But many of the studies on chocolate are inconclusive, showing neither significant health advantages nor disadvantages. And the results of today's IHC study on cocoa powder contradicts previous theories that chocolate triggers migraines in some people.

While research continues, so does chocolate consumption. Parsing chocolate fact from fiction could be the key to guilt-free snacking.

"It's reasonable for a natural food, reasonably unrefined, to have some good qualities to it," said Keith-Thomas Ayoob, director of the nutrition clinic at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. "Most people are probably already realizing these benefits."

Some Studies Show Significant Benefits From Cocoa Read more...