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Researchers believe chocolate's antioxidant potential may have a range of health benefits.

In its overview, NCBI cites the recent discovery of biologically active phenolic compounds in cocoa...

▲Looking to lose or maintain weight? Then be careful with your chocolate intake. Its high sugar and fat content quickly loosen belt buckles and pop out shirt buttons.

▲Indeed, results published by Consumer Lab appear to confirm that many cocoa powders contain more than 0.3 micrograms of cadmium per gram—the maximum amount recommended by the World Health Organization per serving.

▲The higher the cocoa content, the greater the health benefits. Dark chocolate perhaps has the edge over its milk counterpart, and may also contain less refined fat and sugar.

▲This has prompted research into how chocolate might impact aging and other conditions, including stress and blood pressure regulation.

▲Hot chocolate helps improve blood flow to parts of the brain where it is needed.

▲If eaten regularly as part of a low-fat diet, chocolate bars containing plant sterols and cocoa flavanols may support cardiovascular health, suggest findings published by NCBI.

▲Nibbling on a bit of dark chocolate might reduce the oxygen cost of moderate exercise, suggests JISSN.

▲Another study, published by AAN, found that those who ate chocolate regularly were less likely to experience a stroke than those who abstained.

▲However, according to a study published by Nutrition, elevated chocolate consumption is linked to lower body mass index in adults.

▲Chocolate's high sugar content is no friend of the pearly whites, and can be a cause of tooth decay.

▲"Chocoholics" may experience migraines due to cocoa's tyramine, histamine, and phenylalanine content, some researchers maintain.

▲According to results published by the NCBI, older women who consume chocolate daily are susceptible to lower bone density and strength.

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While too much chocolate consumption can lead to acne and skin blemishes, rubbing the stuff all over the body has some surprisingly healthy benefits.

Chocolate's high caffeine content stimulates circulation and improves blood flow. Rich in antioxidants, chocolate can also revitalize tired skin.

▲A chocolate massage or chocolate body wrap also improve skin texture, with cocoa's magnesium, calcium, and potassium content working wonders in renewing cells.

▲Back then in Mesoamerica, where the cocoa tree is native, cultivation, consumption, and cultural use of cacao was extensive. They were drinking chocolate beverages as far back as 350 BCE.

▲Key points to remember about chocolate consumption is that it has long been associated with ailments such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. Oh, and did somebody mention weight gain?

▲A study by BMJ concluded that higher levels of chocolate consumption could be linked to a decreased risk of cardiometabolic disorders.

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After the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs, chocolate was imported to Europe. Later the "chocoholic" was born, and today the global chocolate market is currently worth over US$98 billion, according to MarketsandMarkets.

Sources: (Medical News Today)

▲But next time you bite into this heavenly treat, don't feel so guilty— there are some surprising health benefits associated with this sweet sensation.

▲High levels of cadmium and lead, which can damage kidneys, bones, and other body tissues, have been detected in some cocoa powders, chocolate bars, and cacao nibs.

▲And in case you're wondering, did you know that chocolate is made from tropical Theobroma cacao tree seeds?

▲Light, or milk, chocolate is made with milk, and is packed with protein and calcium. Higher iron content and levels of antioxidants are the standout health benefits associated with dark chocolate.

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Moms-to-be, rejoice! Eating 30g of chocolate daily during pregnancy might benefit fetal growth and development. Just be careful not to overindulge.

▲Furthermore, research posted on NCBI indicates that a cocoa extract, called levado, might lessen or prevent damage to nerve pathways found in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

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Everybody has their favorite chocolate, but consider this argument next time you indulge...

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The findings, posted by Neurology, suggest that drinking two cups of hot chocolate a day could help keep the brain healthy and abate memory loss in older people.

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Deliciously decadent and sinfully seductive, chocolate is one of the world's favorite treats. Indeed, its unique, rich, and sweet taste is enjoyed by millions. But how good and bad is this guilty pleasure?

Browse the following gallery and find out the health benefits and risks of chocolate.