A gift of Valentine’s Day chocolates may be a gift for the heart, as well as from the heart. Chocolate contains antioxidants that can protect your heart. Known as flavonoids, these antioxidants also are found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and red and white wine. They reduce the risk of blood clots and heart disease. The amount of flavonoids in a particular chocolate depends on the processing. White chocolate has the fewest flavonoids, and dark chocolate has the most. A study printed in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that chocolate slowed the oxidation of LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and increased the level of HDL ("good" cholesterol). Research also shows that 61% of Americans are copper deficient and that an ounce of chocolate contains the minimum daily requirement.

“You can enjoy chocolate on Valentine’s Day, just practice portion control.” said Jenny Wages, RD/LD, dietitian with Methodist Healthcare. “One piece of quality chocolate can be satisfying. It isn’t necessary to give the biggest box of chocolates.”

With advance notice Wages is available for interviews. For visuals, we can assemble an array of Valentine’s chocolates or set up the interview in the Valentine’s Day gift section of a department store.

If you are interested in doing a story, please phone Shirley Wills at 822-2378 or 365-4488(cell) or JoAnn King, 575-0171 or 325-3294 (cell). For media assistance during the weekend, please phone Methodist Hospital, 575-4000, and ask for the public relations representative on call.