I think we all realize by now that death by chocolate no longer applies. In fact, our whole way of thinking about chocolate has changed dramatically in the last several years. Chocolate itself has changed. It has evolved and developed with a brand new identity. No longer is chocolate considered a mere candy, to be passed out as a treat or a reward. It has blossomed into a full-grown super-food.
The truth is, chocolate has quite a history, dating back even as far as 2000 BC. In those early days Cocoa was a celebrated and valued as a part of ancient Mesoamerican society, but ancient records also reveal that cocoa was used for more than 150 different medicinal purposes during that period. During the 16th century, it has been noted that chocolate was highly predominant in many of the remedies that were prescribed for an assortment of illnesses, and was ranked along side with other homeopathic cures.
The following are a few quotes from some famous users of chocolate in its long history:
o Thomas Jefferson: "The superiority of chocolate, both for health and nourishment, will soon give it the preference over tea and coffee in America which it has in Spain"
o William Clark, famed explorer: "I felt myself very unwell and directed a little chocolate which Mr. McClellan gave us, prepared of which I drunk about a pint and found great relief..."
o Baron Justus von Liebig, German chemist: "Chocolate is a perfect food, as wholesome as it is delicious, a beneficent restorer of exhausted power. It is the best friend of those engaged in literary pursuits."
o Jean Antheime Brillat-Savarin, lawyer and politician: "It has been shown as proof positive that carefully prepared chocolate is as healthful a food as it is pleasant; that it is nourishing and easily it is above all helpful to people who must do a great deal of mental work."
During the Industrial Revolution, chocolate began to see its demise and by the 1950's, it had completely lost its association with health and healing. Although highly coveted and associated with delicacies, the real power and functionality was buried beneath the sugar, milk and Dutching process.
Yet today, we are watching with a gladdened heart as chocolate is making a comeback! It is being rediscovered as a health food and nutritious source of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins and minerals. It is finding its legs, to stand among the prominent leaders in health and wellness.
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