It might be hard to summarize, and say that there are exactly 7 health benefits of dark chocolate – there are probably more! – but it is, for a fact, good for you. The actual ground cacao bean – from which raw chocolate is made – is a great food. It’s the sugar and fat that they add to a typical chocolate candy bar, for example, would put it into the “not good for you” category. But cacao is a bean, and beans are good for you!
So here’s hoping the chocolate you have left over from the holidays is dark chocolate! Let’s take a look at 7 health benefits.
It’s Great for Your Skin
The antioxidants in dark chocolate are nourishment for your skin. They help provide protection against damage from the sun and improve overall hydration of your skin, by shielding your skin from oxidative stress. It’s not a complete substitute for many other good things you can do on a regular basis to care for your skin, but it can complement it – helping you to have a more radiant and healthy skin.
It’s Full of Antioxidants
As just mentioned in relation to your skin, the antioxidants in chocolate are good for your entire body. Dark chocolate is a powerful source of flavonoids, which are great antioxidants that are critical in their role in neutralizing free radicals and protecting your cells for damage. So incorporating dark chocolate into your diet is a very tasty way to boost your body’s defenses against oxidative stress!
It Promotes Heart Health
Dark chocolate makes a great contribution to your cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and enhancing blood flow! This comes (again) from the fact that it is rich in flavonoids! So embrace this heart-healthy property of dark chocolate. Moderate consumption of dark chocolate has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. What a “sweet” way to accomplish a healthy goal.
Dark chocolate contains a substance known as stearic acid – which has been associated with a positive impact on cholesterol levels.
It Helps Your Brain
Actually…it’s the caffeine! The caffeine content of chocolate improves your alertness level. It contains theobromine which helps you fill your energy tank. It contains flavonoids that enhance brain function, improve memory, and help your concentration.
It Helps to Keep Your Weight in Check
Some people probably think chocolate would be the last thing you would use to help manage your weight and prevent obesity, but that’s not necessarily the case. Dark chocolate might actually be a sensible choice for those trying to keep the pounds off. Chocolate has a rich flavor; cravings for sweetness can be satisfied with relatively small portions – so you’re less inclined to overindulge.
Dark Chocolate Contains Lots of Nutrients
Nutrient-Rich Delicacy: Dark chocolate isn’t just a confection; it’s a nutrient-rich delicacy. Packed with essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and copper, it contributes to your daily nutrient intake. So, as you relish the exquisite taste, you’re also treating your body to a wealth of vital nutrients.
Dark Chocolate Can Help Relieve Stress
Dark chocolate triggers the release of endorphins. Endorphins are “happy” hormones that improve your mood and help alleviate stress! So dark chocolate can be a go-to comfort food in stressful times. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, maybe reach for a square of dark chocolate!
Finally…
Just a quick note: the higher the cacao content of the dark chocolate, the healthier it is. Try to find versions of dark chocolate that contain more than 70% cacao. This way you will get maximum health benefits while enjoying dark chocolate’s delicious taste!
Use dark chocolate in moderation, like pretty much everything else. It has calories, but the fact that it’s dark tells you that probably less of the calories are empty sugar calories. You’re getting good fats and lots of nutrients! Dark chocolate is not that expensive, there’s lots of it out there. So make the dark chocolate choice!
Any comments, questions or valuable tips on the use of dark chocolate, please feel free to share in the space below.
