1. Myth: Chocolate and Confectionery cause cavities

Fact: Not so. Any food containing sugars or starches that is fermentable carbohydrates, can contribute to tooth decay. It all depends on how often we eat and drink these foods and how long they remain in our mouths. Tooth decay is primarily the result of poor dental hygiene. The best way to prevent cavities is to regularly use fluoride, practice proper oral hygiene, and visit your dentist.

2. Myth: Eating chocolate and confectionery items causes weight increase

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, most overweight people do not eat too much confectionery or chocolate. People gain weight when the number of calories they consume each day is more than the number of calories they burn through physical activity. Overweight children, for example, are generally less active than those of normal weight. As a result they keep piling up the calories and remain heavy even when their calorie intake is not so much.

However it is also important to remember that when we eat too many calories and fat, we gain weight, which increases risk for heart disease, some types of cancer, diabetes, obesity and other diseases. Eating a chocolate bar or a candy will not necessarily make you fat, but these sweet treats should be balanced with other food choices throughout the day.

3. Myth: Chocolate doesn't have many vitamins or minerals

Fact: Solid chocolate is a major source of copper and magnesium. Copper helps the body use iron and aids in the development of connective tissue, blood vessels, and skin. Magnesium is part of the bone structure. It also has a role in the nervous system and in the break down of protein. Moreover, chocolate milk has higher levels of zinc, potassium, copper and magnesium than plain milk.

4. Myth: Chocolate has no nutritional value

Fact: Chocolate can play a positive nutritional role when included sensibly in a balanced diet. Chocolate is a useful source of copper and antioxidants. Milk chocolate contributes considerable calcium to the diet. Key vitamins such as riboflavin, thiamine, and, to a lesser extent, niacin can also be found in chocolate. Finally, chocolate has high energy value - so much so, that it has been used as part of the rations on many expeditions.

5. Myth: Chocolate is high in calories

Fact: Many people overestimate the calories in chocolate. A 1.5 oz milk chocolate bar contains approximately 220 calories, low enough to incorporate into a weight control diet.

6. Myth: Chocolates are linked to Acne

Fact: Over the past two decades, clinical studies have shown that chocolate is not a cause or factor in the development or persistence of acne.

7. Myth: Chocolate is addictive

Fact: Although it’s true that many people love the taste of chocolate, it is not an addictive food. An addiction is a serious medical condition with specific physical and psychological symptoms. However, the desire for sweet tasting food is a strong biological drive, and it can be satisfied by eating any naturally sweet food or product made with sugar.