It has been reported that dark chocolate (not milk or white) is high in beneficial vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, and that coffee can prevent the onset of many diseases. Until now it was unclear exactly why dark chocolate can lower blood pressure, but this morning the LA Times reported that the American Chemical Society (ACS) in Dallas found that specific microbes in our gut convert a portion of the cocoa into anti-inflammatory compounds. These can be used by our body and can prevent some forms of cardiovascular disease. It was also found that our colon ferments dietary fiber, which makes up 30 percent of cocoa powder.
