Heavy Metal: Good for Music, Bad for Chocolate
Some people think heavy metal wasn’t good for music either. Nevertheless, I eat dark chocolate (72% cacoa or above) daily for its health perks — cardiovascular and such. But when I found out about the heavy metal content in certain bars, I nearly choked on my flavanols. Arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury have all been detected in common, popular brands, which can be harmful to your kidneys, bones and even cognitive function. And get this: When I researched my go-to chocolate bar, Consumer Reports and other media outlets reported that it was loaded with alarming levels of lead and cadmium. The manufacturer even “faced legal action for not disclosing these levels on product labels, but the bars remain available in stores despite these concerns.” I’m looking at you, TJ’s.
Medical Disclaimer: Heads up, gang. The information expressed here is not to be mistaken for medical advice. It’s merely a morsel of education for you to chew on, like a mental snack. If it sparks your interest, talk to a trusted health practitioner. It isn’t meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. And if you’re dealing with a medical emergency, good God, man, call 911 ASAP.
