6 Reasons to Enjoy Chocolate Every Day

Chocolate is a treat enjoyed by people all around the world in various forms and flavors. Contrary to popular belief that chocolate is bad for you, the truth is that some can be beneficial to your health—assuming you stick to modest portions and avoid overindulging, of course.

Dark chocolate is one example of a treat packed with health benefits. Although it may not be as tasty as having a sweet, sugary bar of white chocolate, cacao can be good for you even in relatively indulgent portions.

Cacao beans, from which dark chocolate is made, is rich in flavor and is a healthier option compared to milk chocolate.

Some studies suggest that dark chocolate may have health benefits, such as improving heart health and providing antioxidants. The dark chocolate benefits are numerous, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

One of the reasons dark chocolate is considered healthier is due to its high cocoa content. Cocoa is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.

This is why dark chocolate is often recommended as a part of a heart-healthy diet. The cocoa benefits are also linked to improved brain function and mood enhancement.

In addition to its health benefits, dark chocolate is also a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It can be used in baking, cooking, and even in savory dishes to add a rich, complex flavor.

Whether you're enjoying it on its own or incorporating it into your favorite recipes, dark chocolate is a treat that can be both delicious and beneficial to your health.

The advantages of dark chocolate include its ability to satisfy sweet cravings while providing essential nutrients.

For those wondering why dark chocolate is good for you, it's important to note that it contains less sugar and more cocoa than milk chocolate.

This means you're getting more of the beneficial compounds found in cocoa, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which have been linked to various health benefits. The dark chocolate nutrition profile includes fiber, iron, magnesium, and other essential minerals.

Overall, the benefits of eating dark chocolate make it a smart choice for those looking to indulge in a treat without compromising their health.

Just remember to enjoy it in moderation, as it can still be high in calories and fat. The health benefits of chocolate, especially dark chocolate, are a great reason to include it in your diet.

Still curious to learn more reasons why chocolate is the superfood it is? Here are a few benefits of having some dark chocolate every day:

Chocolate Aids Weight Loss

Studies show that eating a piece of dark chocolate 20 minutes before and five minutes after a meal can slash your appetite in half. This is because the cacao-rich varieties of the candy release hormones that make you believe that you are “full.” Sugary chocolates, on the other hand, cause your blood sugar levels to spike, leaving you craving for more sweets or food afterward.

Chocolate Fuels Your Brain

Chocolates often contain flavanol, a natural ingredient that promotes healthy blood flow and circulation to the brain. The best part is that cocoa contains a unique form of flavanol, which will benefit your body when enjoyed regularly in moderate amounts.

Chocolate is Good For Your Skin

Through flavanols, the body is able to work on the proper distribution of nutrients and blood flow all over the body. One of these is the skin, wherein the nutrients of chocolate act as a light shield for your skin. This does not mean skipping on sunblock products, as UV rays are still very strong and can damage your epidermis.

One other thing to mention is that chocolates are a great stress reliever, which in turn contributes to keeping your skin fresh and young.

Chocolate Contains Natural Antioxidants

Dark chocolates are packed full of antioxidants, which control your blood pressure and decrease the risks of cardiovascular disease. This works through the flavanols reacting positively with artery linings to produce nitric oxide. Results from this release aid in relaxing the blood pressure and lowering it to healthy levels. A few pieces of dark cacao a day can offer improved health and heightened daily performance.

Research institutions at Harvard University and Columbia University have found that the cocoa plant’s seeds contain 40 times as much antioxidants compared to antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries.

Chocolate Can Provide an Energetic Boost

If you are not a coffee drinker or are struggling to find ways to stay awake during a long day at work, dark chocolate normally contains a good serving of caffeine. With 43 mg of caffeine per hundred grams, these chocolates give you an energy boost without the massive sugar crash that comes with other sweets.

Chocolate Makes Us Happy

Chocolate is well-loved for a reason—they make people happy! Aside from the amazing taste, chocolate has certain chemical components that make it irresistible. There are compounds that are part of the makeup, which include phenylethylamine that stimulates the body and gives a similar feeling to falling in love. Additionally, dopamine in chocolates exists, which makes it a great antidepressant using naturally-occurring hormones.

Conclusion

These are merely some benefits of dark chocolate products, and having a few pieces of it over the course of your day will definitely be beneficial to your health. However, it is important to scan for sugar content in each product you find, as some may claim to be healthy but are riddled with artificial ingredients and flavorings. For the benefits and essential nutrition of dark chocolate, make sure to try our raspberry dark chocolate protein recovery shake!

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