While many students may attempt to stray away from chocolate for various reasons and myths, this sweet treat is actually good for your body and skin, albeit in small amounts. It can be difficult deciphering from fact and fiction, so below are several common myths that have been proven to be untrue.

Myth 1: Dark chocolate is the best chocolate for you

Cacao, the bean from which cocoa powder is derived, has been found to lower blood pressure. The higher the cacao percentage, the better the chocolate is for you. In an 18-week study, it was found that participants who ate a small amount of 50 percent cacao chocolate, what you typically buy at the store, had a significant reduction in blood pressure.

Myth 2: Chocolate causes acne

Fortunately for chocolate lovers, there is no link between chocolate consumption and acne. No matter how much or how little you eat, it will have no effect on your face and body acne. That goes for almost anything in your diet; acne is caused by a combination of bacteria, oil and genetics.

Myth 3: Chocolate causes weight gain

As long as you eat chocolate in moderation, weight gain won’t be a problem. Having a chocolate bar a day on top of fast food, bread based products and lack of exercise will not guarantee a healthy figure. Eating food in moderation – usually keeping under 2,000 calories a day – is the key to a healthy diet, and chocolate, in moderation, won’t cause problems.

Myth 4: Chocolate lacks nutritional value

As mentioned above, chocolate, especially dark, is packed with health benefits and is full of antioxidants. Dark chocolate also has magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, polyphenols, calcium and potassium. These vitamins and minerals help with muscle, joint and nerve functioning, as well as protecting your body against cell damage.

Myth 5: Chocolate causes cavities

Both the Eastman Dental Center and Osaka University in Japan have recorded no association between consuming chocolate and cavities. In fact, the sugar in the chocolate dissolves so quickly in your mouth it has little chance of having significant contact with tooth surfaces. Rather than avoiding chocolate for healthy teeth, maintain proper oral hygiene, and what you eat will not be problematic.

Now that the true benefits and myths of chocolate have been discussed, feel free to have that slice of chocolate cake at your tailgate or the pack of M&M’s on the way to class without regret or worry.