When most people consider chocolate, they immediately relate it to luxury, an unethical pleasure that serves the sweet desire. But dark chocolate, especially the one with a greater concentration of cocoa, provides much more than a mere notion of a feel-good factor. Being an antioxidant, dark chocolate is a wholesome food that is nutrient-dense and boosts the strength of human health. Now, it is time to discuss how it is possible to include dark chocolate in your diet and make it beneficial for your body.
Rich Source of Antioxidants
Dark chocolate contains plenty of essential antioxidants, such as flavonoids, catechins, and polyphenols. These compounds scavenge free radicals in the body and thus minimize oxidative reactions and cell destruction. This, coupled with a high antioxidant content, aids in deterring chronic diseases, hence making it a health-friendly product.
Improves Heart Health
The most well-known medicinal quality of dark chocolate is that it contributes positively to the functioning of the heart. Research has established that dark chocolate can, in fact, prevent the occurrence of heart diseases. The antioxidants available in cocoa are beneficial in dilating blood vessels, reducing high blood pressure, and enhancing blood flow. This goes a long way in preventing cardiovascular moments such as stroke and heart attacks.
Lowers Blood Pressure
The antibacterial flavonoids present in dark chocolate led to increased nitric oxide production, which facilitated wider blood vessels and improved blood circulation. This process then results in lower blood pressure, especially among people who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure. Small daily portions of dark chocolate can help regulate blood pressure, hence improving overall blood pressure levels.
Boosts Brain Function
Interestingly, dark chocolate is not just good for the heart but also the brain. On the same note, flavonoids increase blood flow to the brain, making it easier to think and recall information. Scientific research has attributed enhanced memory, ability to react quickly, and improved performance in solving problems to the consumption of dark chocolate. Furthermore, cocoa contains small quantities of caffeine and theobromine that can stimulate the brain slightly.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is a primary cause of several diseases, including Diabetes, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases. Dark chocolate is known to contain polyphenols, flavonoids, and other chemicals that act as natural anti-inflammatories and pacemakers within our bodies. Dark chocolate can have numerous health benefits because it cancels out inflammation that leads to chronic diseases.
Supports Weight Loss
Interestingly, dark chocolate has also been found to have some relation to weight loss. In contrast to belief, dark chocolate, due to its complex taste, can satisfy hunger and eliminate cravings for sweets in people who are on a diet. Dark chocolate can actually reduce hunger and thus promote less overeating as long as the person takes it alongside other healthy foods.
Improves Skin Health
Therefore, dark chocolate has benefits for people who want to avoid the use of chemicals and substances to achieve better skin. The polyphenols in dark chocolate have a UV stabilizing property, so they protect the skin from sun damage; the remedies in dark chocolate increase the skin’s ability to retain water; and the flavanols in cocoa products improve blood flow to the skin. This results in increased skin brightness and improved skin tone, and it also provides the skin with a shield against damaging UV rays.
Lowers Risk of Diabetes
This may sound surprising, but dark chocolate has been found to increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Improved insulin sensitivity implies that the body is well equipped to handle blood sugar levels, hence reducing the chances of developing type 2 Diabetes. Consuming moderate amounts of dark chocolate is a good addition to the diet of individuals who want to prevent dysregulation of blood sugars.
Enhances Mood and Reduces Stress
There’s a reason why consuming chocolate can be comforting and easy, especially when one is depressed. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which help increase endorphin production in your body, hormones that are associated with a happy feeling in most individuals. It also comprises serotonin, a neurotransmitter that has been found to have antidepressant effects. These chemicals are known to help one lower their level of stress and increase their feeling of happiness when they are taken together.
Supports Gut Health
It is important to note that the state of the gut is vital to your health and that this type of chocolate can improve this aspect. One of the products that contain prebiotics that are good for the gut bacteria is dark chocolates. One kind of good bacteria will help to digest certain compounds, while another has anti-inflammatory properties that assist in making the gut healthy.
Promotes Healthy Cholesterol Levels
It was also observed that dark chocolate influences cholesterol; thus, it is not only a treat or a thoughtful inclusion in birthday gifts but a healthier one. You can even support the increase of HDL cholesterol and decrease the levels of LDL cholesterol. This balance of healthy cholesterol levels helps prevent plaque formation in arteries and, therefore, contributes to a healthier heart, which makes dark chocolate not only tasty but a healthy gift as well.
Conclusion
Dark chocolate is not just an epitome of taste and a luxury food product; it is also a treasure trove of health benefits for the heart, brain, and entire body. Thus, the next time you enjoy a piece of dark chocolate, you are more likely to do it with great pleasure and knowing you are, in fact, feeding your body as well.