8 Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is more than just a delicious indulgence. This rich and complex treat has a variety of health benefits that make it a guilt-free pleasure. Some research suggests that it can reduce inflammation and insulin resistance, and it may even help lower the risk of heart disease. In addition, it is full of important minerals for your body, such as iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, and copper.
Here are eight reasons why you should consider adding dark chocolate to your diet.
Heart Health
Dark chocolate contains flavanols, which are antioxidants that help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. This can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
It is important to note that the potential heart health benefits of dark chocolate are attributed to the flavanols found in cocoa, so it is recommended to choose high-quality dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa solids (70% or higher) for maximum health benefits. It’s worth taking in account that dark chocolate is also high in calories and fat, so moderation is key to avoid overconsumption.
2. Brain Health
Flavanols in dark chocolate can also improve cognitive function and protect the brain from age-related decline. Eating dark chocolate regularly may help prevent memory loss and improve overall brain function.
In addition to this, some studies show that this delicious treat may help reduce the risk of depression and strokes, when consumed on a regular basis.
3. Mood Booster
Dark chocolate contains phenylethylamine (PEA), which is a natural mood enhancer. PEA stimulates the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural feel-good chemicals.
This chemical compound is a neurotransmitter, which means it helps transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain. It is sometimes referred to as the "love drug" because it is believed to be responsible for the feelings of excitement and attraction that occur when we fall in love.
PEA has also been linked to improved mood, increased alertness, and enhanced cognitive function. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on the body and brain.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Dark chocolate has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be especially beneficial for people with chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
These properties come from the presence of flavonoids, which are natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is a natural response by the body to protect against injury and infection, but chronic inflammation is linked to many chronic diseases.
Research has shown that consuming dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa solids (70% or more) can reduce inflammation in the body by lowering the levels of certain markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein and interleukin-6. The flavonoids in dark chocolate have been shown to inhibit the activity of pro-inflammatory molecules and reduce oxidative stress, which can also contribute to inflammation.
5. Blood Sugar Control
Dark chocolate has a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a good option for people with diabetes or anyone looking to control their blood sugar levels.
This benefit may be particularly important for people with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. Dark chocolate can help by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing insulin resistance, increasing satiety, and it even has a lower glycemic index, which means it causes a slower and more gradual increase in blood sugar levels after consumption.
It is important to note that while dark chocolate may offer some benefits for blood sugar control, it should not be considered a replacement for medication or other diabetes treatments. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and stress management, are also important for maintaining blood sugar control in people with diabetes or insulin resistance.
6. Skin Health
Dark chocolate has been associated with several potential skin health benefits due to its high content of flavanols, which are natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the benefits are: protection against UV damage, improved skin hydration (by improving blood flow to the skin), reduced inflamation, and anti-aging effects.
As mentioned earlier, it is important to consume this product in moderation and remember that it does not substitute any treatment for skin conditions. A healthy diet and regular exercise are also important for maintaining overall skin health.
7. Weight Loss Aid
Despite its sweet and indulgent taste, dark chocolate may actually help with weight loss. The reason for this is that it usually acts as a substitute of another food, which is usually a more caloric and fatty option. For those of us who crave something sweet just after finishing a meal, having a piece of dark chocolate might be the safest option, and it is healthier than other options and it gives us the satisfaction of indulging in a delicious dessert. This can, as a result, lead to a decreased calorie intake.
8. Dental Health
If consumed in excess, dark chocolate could be harmful for your teeth due to the high levels of sugar it contains. However, if consumed in moderation, there are some dental health benefits associated to it.
It contains compounds that can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, including those that cause tooth decay. Studies have found that consuming dark chocolate can lead to a decrease in the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
It has been shown strengthen tooth enamel due to the presence of theobromine, which can also help protect against tooth decay and erosion.
Conclusion
Dark chocolate is a sweet and indulgent treat that offers a variety of health benefits. From improving heart health and brain function to boosting mood and reducing risk of depression, there are many reasons to indulge in this delicious treat. So next time you're in the mood for something sweet, consider reaching for a piece of dark chocolate and enjoy the benefits it has to offer.
