Minerals

analyzing chocolate

 

Cocoa and chocolate provide a treasury of minerals. Often working in conjunction with vitamins, these are also indispensable for normal physical function. The most significant of the minerals found in chocolate are:

Name % RDA* per
100 g
chocolate		 In which
chocolate
types?		 Functions
Calcium 3 - 40% Mostly found in milk and white chocolate.
  • needed for the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth
  • together with vitamin A, aids coagulation of blood in wounds
  • plays a role in muscle function
Magnesium 6 - 60% The greatest concentrations are found in dark chocolate.
  • helps maintain a strong skeletal system
  • primarily active in the promotion of memory and brain function and in preventing depression
Copper 0 - 60% Mostly found in dark chocolate and, to a lesser extent, in milk chocolate.
  • probably has a role in countering cardiovascular disease
Iron 2 - 35% Mostly found in dark chocolate.
  • active in the transport of oxygen to all body tissues
Phosphorus 25 - 35% Only in milk and dark chocolate.
  • involved in the maintenance of a strong skeletal system
  • has a role in the utilization of energy arising from food
Zinc 7 - 17% The highest concentrations are found in dark chocolate.
  • important in the take-up of nutritional elements from macro-nutrients
  • involved in cell growth and the repair of tissue in the human body
Manganese 0 - 100% The highest concentrations are found in dark chocolate and, to a lesser extent, in milk chocolate.
  • aids the functioning of the nervous system

* Recommended Daily Allowance