A few years ago the mounting scientific evidence attesting to the health benefits of pure chocolate began to be made known to the general public. Books, magazine articles, and television guest appearances by experts on chocolate science have steadily convinced us that chocolate can be healthy. This book details the lore, legend, and medical truths now known to science, as seen from the perspective of a physician, revealing how and why pure chocolate is wholesome and healthy. It reviews the many and often surprising health benefits of eating chocolate. It augments the facts with references to the scientific research for each major topic. This practical guide to the uses of chocolate as a health food will serve a valuable resource for everyone who wants to "have their cake and eat it too" - who wish to enjoy the seemingly sinful pleasures of dining on chocolate while simultaneously improving their health and well-being.