Celina and Prosper Family Dentist Celebrates Chocolate!

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If you’ve ever doubted the magnificence of chocolate, you should know that the cocoa tree from which it comes is scientifically known as Theobroma Cacao, meaning “food of the gods” in Greek. Despite the many years of belief that chocolate tastes too good to be healthy, studies show that the sweet treat can actually help fight illnesses like heart disease.  As an added bonus, research also shows that the husk of the cocoa bean contains cavity-fighting properties. To celebrate, Dr. Newton and the staff at Celina Family Dentistry bring you these fun chocolate facts. Enjoy!

Did You Know?

  • The word chocolate is derived from the Aztec word xocolātl, meaning “bitter water.”
  • The earliest known use of the cocoa bean was as currency among the Aztecs. For instance, a turkey could cost about 100 cocoa beans.
  • Europe was graced with chocolate’s presence in the 16th century, after the Spanish conquered the Aztec people.
  • Chocolate became popular throughout Europe as a drink, but it was only available to royalty and the well-connected.
  • In the 17th century, Hans Sloane invented a milk chocolate drink after visiting Jamaica. While there, Sloane became ill after drinking a local cacao beverage. To avoid nausea, he decided to mix the concoction with milk. After returning to England, Sloane’s chocolate milk was sold in apothecaries as medicine.
  • In 1937, the US Army added chocolate to soldiers’ basic field rations. The chocolate improved morale and served as a high-energy emergency ration, but didn’t taste very good. In the 1980’s, a heat-resistant and tasty chocolate bar was developed for the military, and it has been a part of the soldier’s rations ever since.

As interesting and healthy as chocolate is, you should still practice moderation in your indulgence. Too much chocolate can negatively affect your physical and dental health. For more information on nutrition and your oral health, schedule an appointment with Dr. Newton at our Prosper dentist office by calling (214) 851-0130. We serve patients of all ages from Celina, Prosper, McKinney, Frisco, Anna, Pilot Point, and the surrounding areas.