Dark chocolate is more than just a delicious treat; it’s an excellent source of antioxidants and fiber. Additionally, dark chocolate may help lower blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
For maximum health benefits from chocolate, opt for bars with 70 percent cocoa or higher. Avoid bars that have been alkalized, which reduces beneficial flavonols.
Antioxidants
Dark chocolate is an excellent source of antioxidants, which are natural compounds that combat free radicals that can damage cells and lead to disease.
Dark chocolate’s antioxidants, particularly flavanols, have been demonstrated to lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, these compounds stimulate your arteries to produce nitric oxide which improves circulation by decreasing resistance within arteries.
Dark chocolate is an excellent source of minerals and vitamins. It contains magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron as well as soluble fiber and protein in large amounts.
Fiber
Eating more fiber is an excellent way to promote good health. It can help you feel satiated after meals, shed pounds, and have regular bowel movements.
A high-fiber diet has been scientifically proven to reduce your risk of several types of cancer, such as colon cancer. A study revealed that people who consume 10 or more grams of fiber daily had an 11% lower risk for colorectal cancer compared to those eating less than 5 grams daily.
Dietary fiber can be found in many foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (like beans), nuts and seeds. By selecting foods high in both soluble and insoluble fiber content you will help meet your daily fiber requirements.
Heart Health
Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and flavonoids, two compounds which can benefit your heart’s health. Not only does it lower blood pressure, but it also increases oxygen flow to both organs.
Dark chocolate contains flavonoids which can protect your skin against UV damage and boost its hydration and density. Furthermore, dark chocolate may improve blood flow to the brain, potentially decreasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Eating a small amount of dark chocolate daily may help lower your risk for high cholesterol and blood pressure. This is because cocoa flavanols help combat LDL oxidation, which can clog blood vessels and lead to heart issues.
Weight Loss
Dark chocolate may provide weight loss benefits by increasing insulin sensitivity, decreasing hunger and appetite, as well as elevating mood. Furthermore, experts note that it helps to curb cravings for sweet and fatty foods.
Dark chocolate contains monounsaturated fatty acids which can boost metabolism and help you burn calories. Plus, it provides heart-healthy fats like oleic acid which lowers cholesterol levels.
It is essential to remember, however, that chocolate contains significant amounts of calories and fat – so it should only be enjoyed occasionally as a treat. Furthermore, opt for high-quality dark chocolate with minimal added sugars and at least 70% cocoa content.
Brain Health
Dark chocolate is not only a tasty treat, it also has health benefits. These include improving heart health and elevating your mood.
Research has demonstrated that dark chocolate may enhance brain activity. It increases blood flow to certain regions associated with pleasure and reward in the brain.
Dark chocolate may help improve memory and focus. According to studies, its antioxidants are believed to be responsible for this beneficial effect.
Dark chocolate not only helps reduce stress levels and promote better sleep, but it can also benefit digestive health by supporting the diversity of your gut microbiome.
