Irrespective of age, everyone loves chocolate and is consumed by millions of people across the globe. Chocolate is the most popular sweet treat and there is no celebration without it. Nearly 4.7 million tons of cocoa are produced every year. Chocolate not only satisfies your soul but also has various health benefits. Dark chocolate contains various nutrients that positively impact your health. Here let’s dive into the health benefits of dark chocolate.
Benefits of Eating Dark Chocolate
Prevents Heart Diseases
This is one of the major health benefits of dark chocolate. The compounds especially, flavonols in dark chocolates are highly protective against the oxidation of LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) or bad cholesterol. High levels of LDL might raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. A study published in a ‘clinical nutrition’ journal found people who ate dark chocolates at least five times a week had a reduced risk of heart diseases by 57%.
Improves Brain Function
Dark chocolate benefits your brain by increasing gamma frequency in the cerebral cortex. It also prevents Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. The flavonoids in dark chocolate boost memory, reaction time, and problem-solving skills by increasing blood flow to the brain. The brain uses 20% of the body’s total oxygen intake. The flavanols in the dark chocolate will increase gray matter, which provides a constant oxygen supply to the brain.
Reduces Weight
This is one of the best benefits of dark chocolate. You can eat dark chocolate without worrying about your weight gain. Yes, you read it right! Eating dark chocolate in moderate amounts controls your appetite and helps in your weight loss process. Chocolate acts like a prebiotic, a fiber that encourages the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. Your body will absorb nutrients if there are more good microbes in your gut.
Protects your Skin from Sun
This is one of the proven benefits of dark chocolate. The bioactive compounds in dark chocolate help reduce dark spots, pigmentation and keep your skin healthy. It also reduces the aging process tremendously. The flavanols in the dark chocolate protect against sun damage, improve blood flow to the skin and thus produce skin hydration. Eat dark chocolate before weeks or months of your beach vacation. Because the flavonoids reflect harmful UV rays, prevent sunburn and conditions like skin cancer, eczema, and psoriasis.
Boosts your Mental Health
Research says that people who eat dark chocolate show lower symptoms of depression compared to those who didn’t eat. Dark chocolate boosts the production of endorphins, feel-good chemicals in the brain. The endorphins combine with opiate receptors leading to feelings of euphoria(which reduce pain and stress). It also contains serotonin, the key hormone responsible for stabilizing mood, happiness, and well-being.
Dark chocolate’s health benefits are incredible. However, we advise you to eat one ounce or 20 to 30g of dark chocolate per day.
