"Registered dieticians Aaron and Bearden have crafted an in-depth and decadent examination of one of the world’s favorite treats: chocolate. Divided into six chapters, the book covers all facets of the confection. The authors begin by explaining what chocolate is and its origins before moving on to the history of chocolate and how it is grown and harvested. Of particular note are the last two chapters on chocolate and health and the various myths about the food. The authors do an excellent job of explaining the health benefits of chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants and flavonols. They also provide recipes at the end of each chapter, including those for facials, lip balm, and soap. Chocolate is also flavored with color and black-and-white illustrations. Thoroughly researched and very well written, this would be an excellent addition to any collection. Recommended for all libraries, especially those with strong culinary or food history collections."
LIBRARY JOURNAL
"This book is a must read for any true chocolate afficionado. From appreciating chocolate's unique flavor notes to a journey through time that runs full circle from cocoa as an ancient remedy filled with mystique to modern scientific research unfolding to reveal the real health benefits of chocolate, the authors relate the compelling story of chocolate - its allure to its analysis - from their unique perspective."
DEBRA MILLER, Ph.D.
Director of Nutrition, The Hershey Company
The world loves chocolate and chances are—with most of the population saying their favorite flavor is chocolate—you do too. This enjoyable book will serve to deepen, not only your love, but also your understanding of chocolate.
Some may think that chocolate is simply a treat, something that satisfies a sweet tooth. After reading this truly pleasurable and educational account by two leading dieticians, you will agree that chocolate is much more than that. You will discover it encompasses a culture, a cuisine, a treatment, and much more!
The authors begin by revealing how to truly savor chocolate. Even the most avid chocolate lovers will pick up tips on how to intensify the full chocolate flavor and expand their sensual experience.
Next, they illustrate how cultures around the world enjoy chocolate, and how chocolate, more than just a flavor, holds a special place in holidays and celebrations globally. While exploring other cultures, they journey to the rainforest and explore the origins of chocolate. They then trace its history through the centuries, from the Maya and Aztec cultures, where the chocolate phenomenon began. Over the ages, this dark, delectable food has been viewed as a gift from the gods, as valuable as gold, a medical treatment for illness, a social indulgence for just the elite, and finally a treat to be enjoyed by everyone.
Today, science has proved what was revealed to ancient civilizations so long ago: chocolate does have healing powers. At the end of the 1990s, the authors were among the first to communicate to the media the exciting news that dark chocolate may enhance health. They helped to launch the first "heart healthy" chocolate brand for a global chocolate company.
Replete with luscious photography and enticing recipes, this delightful, even mouthwatering, book will bring your appreciation for this gift of Mother Nature to a new level.
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 230
ISBN: 978-1-59102-653-2
Author Bio:
Shara Aaron, MS, RD (Yardley, PA), has contributed many health-related articles to Family Circle, Parents, American Baby, and Fitness, among other publications. She is the co-owner of Nutcom Nutrition Communications, the nutrition columnist and advisory board member of American Baby, and the communications chair and editor of the New Jersey Dietetic Association Newsletter.
Monica Bearden, RD (Tomball, TX), has published frequently on the cardiovascular health benefits of chocolate. She is the co-owner of NutCom Nutrition Communications and a nutrition consultant for the YMCA. She has worked as a nutrition scientist for a major chocolate manufacturer. Bearden helped manage the early research that showed cocoa to have health benefits and was a company spokesperson to discuss the health benefits of cocoa. She has published numerous papers and has given numerous presentations on the subject of cocoa and health.
