The fat content of the cocoa bean is one third oleic acid, one third stearic acid and one third palmitic acid. Oleic acid is a mono saturated fat like olive oil. According to research studies, stearic acid has no effect on cholesterol. Palmitic acid is a saturated fat and does affect cholesterol levels. However, according to Dr. Phillip Drew Minton who has written a book about the health benefits of chocolate, some saturated fat is necessary in diet as saturated fats provide protection against skin cancer whereas unsaturated fats do not.

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