Hey Lykkers! While often regarded as a guilty pleasure, chocolate, especially in its dark variety, is packed with compounds that can offer significant health benefits.
Let’s explore how indulging in this delicious treat can actually be beneficial to health.
Rich in Nutrients
High-quality dark chocolate is rich in fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, and a few other minerals. These nutrients are essential for the body’s overall health, contributing to bone strength, heart health, and brain function.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Chocolate contains a higher antioxidant capacity than many other foods. It’s loaded with organic compounds that are biologically active and function as antioxidants, such as flavonoids, catechins, and polyphenols. Studies show that these antioxidants can neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress, reducing the risk of some diseases.
Heart Health Benefits
Eating dark chocolate can improve several important risk factors for heart disease. The flavonoids in chocolate can stimulate the endothelium, the lining of arteries, to produce nitric oxide. One of its functions is to signal the arteries to relax, which lowers the resistance to blood flow and therefore reduces blood pressure. Observational studies have consistently shown that chocolate consumption is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks and strokes.
Improved Cholesterol Profile
Studies suggest that cocoa and dark chocolate can improve your LDL cholesterol levels and raise HDL cholesterol in those with higher cholesterol levels. The flavonoids in chocolate help reduce insulin resistance, which is another common risk factor for many diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Brain Function
There’s also evidence that cocoa can provide powerful brain-boosting properties. The flavonoids help improve blood flow to the brain and promote its ability to adapt to stressful situations. These properties may also enhance cognitive functioning in elderly individuals, leading to improvements in attention, mental agility, and memory.
While chocolate can provide significant health benefits, moderation is key. Opting for dark chocolate with high cocoa content and consuming it in moderate amounts can help maximize these benefits without overindulging in sugar and calories. So next time when reach for that piece of chocolate, remember that it’s not just a treat but also a delightful boost to well-being!
11 Health Benefits of Chocolate
Video by Dr. Eric Berg DC
