If you are a chocolate lover, there are 7 important magical benefits for your health that you can find in "dark chocolate." However, it is advisable to consume it in moderation since excessive consumption may lead to weight gain. According to the health site "Healthline", dark chocolate made from cocoa tree seeds is one of the best sources of antioxidants on our planet. Antioxidants play a significant role in protecting the body from free radicals, which contribute to heart diseases, cancer, and other illnesses.
Here are 7 benefits that one can gain from consuming dark chocolate:
1. **Highly Nutritious**: If you buy high-quality dark chocolate that contains a high percentage of cocoa, it includes good amounts of soluble fiber and is packed with minerals. For instance, a 100-gram piece of dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa contains minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese.
2. **Powerful Source of Antioxidants**: Dark chocolate is full of bioactive compounds and acts as an antioxidant. This includes polyphenols, flavanols, and various other antioxidants.
3. **Improves Blood Flow and Lowers Blood Pressure**: The flavanol compounds in dark chocolate can stimulate the lining of the arteries to produce nitric oxide, which sends signals to the arteries to relax, thereby reducing vascular resistance and lowering blood pressure.
4. **Controls Dyslipidemia**: Dark chocolate increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and protects low-density lipoprotein (LDL). This improves the body’s ability to manage the risk of heart disease. For example, a study showed that cocoa found in dark chocolate reduces the oxidation of LDL, which is known to increase the risk of heart disease when oxidized. Dark chocolate may also reduce insulin resistance, another common risk factor for many diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
5. **May Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease**: The compounds in dark chocolate provide strong protection against LDL oxidation. In the long term, this is expected to result in lower cholesterol levels in the arteries, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. A study on 470 elderly men found that cocoa reduced the risk of dying from heart disease by as much as 50%.
6. **Protects Your Skin from Sun Damage**: The compounds in dark chocolate can also be beneficial for your skin; flavanols can protect it from sun damage. They may increase skin density and hydration. If you are planning a beach vacation, consider consuming dark chocolate in the weeks and months prior.
7. **May Improve Brain Function**: The good news doesn't end there. Dark chocolate may also enhance your brain function. A study on healthy volunteers showed that consuming cocoa rich in flavanols for 5 days improved blood flow to the brain. It might also improve cognitive function in elderly individuals suffering from cognitive decline.
