The Zoomer Report: Wrinkle Fighting Chocolate

Here’s some great news if you like chocolate. The world’s largest chocolate maker says it may have come up with a chocolate bar that could fight wrinkles and slow the aging process.

Studies by Barry Callebaut showed eating 20 g of specially developed chocolate packed with antioxidants, or flavanols, each day may help prevent wrinkles and make skin more radiant by boosting elasticity and improving hydration.

Dark chocolate has already been linked with certain health benefits, such as helping to lower blood pressure and reducing the risk of strokes thanks to its high content of antioxidants.

The Swiss group says it has developed a way of preserving the flavanols found in cocoa beans during the chocolate-making process. Smoking, pollution, caffeine and a lack of sleep contribute to the creation of free radicals that can damage healthy cells in the body and accelerate the aging process.

Some experts say flavanols slow down damage caused by free radicals, while others doubt that chocolate, no matter how new and improved, can ever improve your skin.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ pkruger

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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