Chocolate, the word alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, but how can we reconcile the delicious chocolate desserts with our diet?
This article is dedicated to answering that very question, and it will also reveal the top health benefits of chocolate. From treating acne to relieving stress, it seems that this sweet treat does not deserve its bad reputation.
Health Facts
For many people, these benefits might outweigh the risks of consuming too much sugar and fat in chocolate. In either case, the choice is yours. So, if you have ever needed an excuse to sign up for chocolate subscription boxes, here you go.
1) Dark Chocolate Prevents Cavities
It seems that a bar of dark chocolate compliments a toothbrush when it comes to preventing cavities and reducing tooth decay. Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols and cocoa mass, which act as antioxidants to prevent damage from harmful bacteria that attack teeth. If you are looking for the best, then go with 85% dark chocolate.
2) Chocolate Is Good for the Cardiovascular System
This may come as a surprise to most people, but it is true. Studies have shown that eating 1-2 servings per day of dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa content) can have a positive impact on cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
3) Chocolate Helps Skin Conditions
Chocolate is often thought of as a food that can cause pimples, but the antioxidants and flavonoids found in chocolate have the opposite effect by reducing inflammation. Studies involving acne patients have shown that incorporating chocolate into their diet can help prevent acne breakouts, which is great news for chocolate lovers.
4) Eating Chocolate Reduces Stress
We all know how stressful a day at work can be, but did you know that eating dark chocolate can help reduce anxiety? In one study, participants were given white chocolate (which contains no caffeine) and dark chocolate with caffeine to determine the effects of these two chocolates on stress levels. The results were surprising: those who consumed dark chocolate reported lower levels of stress when compared to those who ate milk chocolate.
5) Chocolate Helps Heart Health
We have already established that eating dark chocolate can be beneficial for the cardiovascular system, but it can also lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This is due to the high flavanols found in cocoa, which have been proven to have many positive health effects on heart health.
6) Chocolate Helps with Weight Loss
Let’s be honest, most people do not eat chocolate simply because they are trying to lose weight. Most people eat it because they love it. However, this doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t be aware of the claims that chocolate can help with weight loss.
7) Dark Chocolate Lowers the Risk of Stroke
It is no secret that dark chocolate has a high cocoa content.This means that it also contains high levels of flavonoids, which are known for their ability to reduce free-radical damage in the brain and the body. Studies have shown that individuals who eat dark chocolate regularly also had a decreased risk of stroke, so both your mouth and your brain will thank you if you opt for dark chocolate over milk.
Chocolate is a delicious treat, but it can also be healthy for your body and your mind. Whether you are looking to prevent cavities or lose weight, chocolate has been shown to help in many areas of health – but remember that moderation is the key.