Reasons to Eat More Dark Chocolate      

The many health benefits of this sweet superfood

From the LifeMinute.TV Team

October 28, 2021

National Chocolate Day is October 28th, and we are examining the healthiest kind – dark chocolate. This sweet superfood is so good for you that you may be able to enjoy some every day. Here’s why.

Nutritious
The healthiest dark chocolate contains a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher, which provides more antioxidants and health benefits than a lower amount. Chocolate with high cocoa content is nutritious too. It contains fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium.

Full of Antioxidants
When it comes to chocolate, the darker you go, the more antioxidants you’ll get. Antioxidants found in dark chocolate called flavonoids help to neutralize free radicals, which can cause cancer. Cocoa even contains more antioxidants than green tea.

Mood Booster
Studies show that eating dark chocolate can chemically improve your mood. Dark chocolate can boost the production of feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which may lead to that happy feeling, similar to a “runner’s high.” Dark chocolate can also improve the function of your brain by improving blood flow. And cocoa may aid cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

Heart Healthy
According to one study, eating up to 100 grams of chocolate each day is linked to lowered heart disease and stroke risk. Some research indicates that cocoa powder and dark chocolate can decrease (bad) oxidized LDL cholesterol levels and increase (good) HDL cholesterol levels. Other research suggests consumption of dark chocolate is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, insulin resistance, and high blood pressure in adults.

Aids Weight Loss
Believe it or not, dark chocolate can help you shed some pounds. Eating a piece of dark chocolate before or after meals triggers hormones that can signal to the brain, you’re full. A little bit of sweetness can help curve your cravings too. And chocolate might be good for your gut. During digestion, it can function like a prebiotic promoting the growth of good bacteria.