Dark chocolate is an indulgence that can be healthy. Many people believe it's not good for you, but there are benefits to eating dark chocolate. The following article will go over some of the many dark chocolate health advantages in detail so you know exactly what dark chocolate has to offer you.
Helps Reduce Stress
Did you know that eating a small piece of dark chocolate may reduce your stress levels? Research shows that chocolate contains phenylethylamine, which is a chemical that acts as a relaxant. It makes you feel happier and calmer, so it's no surprise that it has the ability to reduce stress levels. Dark chocolate can be compared to a cup of tea or taking a warm bath in terms of the feeling it gives you. A small piece can break up feelings of depression and calm your nerves. Dark chocolate also increases dopamine levels, which is the motivator in your brain to get things done. This can be beneficial to helping you feel happier, so you may actually feel better overall.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Dark chocolate can also lower blood pressure levels. If you have high blood pressure, this is a good option for you to try. It's a great alternative to taking medication, and it's easy to do. The flavonoids in dark chocolate are beneficial in lowering your blood pressure. Natural treatments are always the best, and eating dark chocolate is a great way to do it. Make sure you're selecting high-quality dark chocolate with enough cocoa content.
Helps Fight Infections
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, which help fight infection in your body. Recent studies have shown that these antioxidants are effective at helping fight prostate cancer, so eating dark chocolate may prevent this cancer from developing in the first place. The antioxidants are also good at fighting off infections and helping you heal faster if you happen to catch something.
May Improve Brain Health
Dark chocolate has been found to improve brain health in seniors. The components found in dark chocolate positively affect your brain's ability to function. They improve memory and give you sharper cognitive skills. The blood vessels in the brain can also be strengthened by eating dark chocolate, which helps preserve your overall brain health as you age.
Improve Your Cholesterol Levels
Dark chocolate contains anthocyanins and flavonoids, which are compounds that have the ability to help reduce cholesterol levels. Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoid found in many different foods, like blueberries and red cabbage. These compounds are especially beneficial in lowering bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol. Therefore, it's no surprise that dark chocolate can help improve your overall cholesterol profile.
Sleep Better
There are many studies conducted regarding dark chocolate's effects on sleep quality. Studies done on dark chocolate show that eating the chocolate before bed can help you fall asleep faster and sleep longer. One study showed that eating dark chocolate is comparable to taking a sleeping pill for those who suffer from insomnia. The flavanols that are found in dark chocolate are responsible for helping improve your sleep, so make sure you choose a high-quality variety that contains plenty of these compounds.
Lowers Risk of Heart Disease
Dark chocolate can lower your risk of heart disease by helping improve the good cholesterol in your body. This is good because you don't want to increase the level of bad cholesterol in your body, which increases the risk of getting heart disease. Dark chocolate has anthocyanins, which are chemicals that help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your body. Therefore, dark chocolate is a good choice if you have high levels of bad cholesterol.
May protect your skin from the sun
The components in dark chocolate may assist in strengthening your skin. This is good because you'll be able to look better as you age. Dark chocolate also helps improve blood circulation, which means your skin will have more oxygen and nutrients during the day.
Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
The polyphenols in dark chocolate are beneficial in helping maintain proper blood sugar levels and insulin levels in your body. They also work to inhibit the enzymatic activity of some of the fatty acid synthase in your body, which converts fat into energy. Therefore, dark chocolate is a good option if you have diabetes or prediabetes.
It's Rich In Minerals
Dark chocolate has several minerals, including magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and potassium. All of these are beneficial for blood pressure regulation and immunity. Potassium can help regulate your blood pressure levels by moving sodium out of the body. Magnesium is beneficial for improving your immune system to fight off infections and maintain proper heart function. Dark chocolate also contains iron, which is beneficial for making red blood cells so your body can transport oxygen around your body through the blood.
Helps Reduce Inflammation
Eicosanoids are compounds in your body that come from fats and oils. They are responsible for inflammation and pain within muscles. Dark chocolate decreases the levels of eicosanoids that cause pain and inflammation. Therefore, dark chocolate can benefit those suffering from chronic injuries or joint pain.
Helps Prevent Premature Aging
Flavonoids in dark chocolate may be beneficial in preventing premature aging of the skin. They help protect your skin against free radicals that may harm your skin cells and cause wrinkles. Free radicals are a natural part of aging, but they don't have to damage your skin if you eat dark chocolate on a regular basis.
May Improve Vision
Dark chocolate flavonoids can help enhance your eyesight and vision. This is great if you wear reading glasses or are shortsighted. Dark chocolate contains anthocyanins, which are compounds that help protect the retina of your eyes against oxidative stress. Therefore, this type of food can be helpful for those who are shortsighted or suffering from dry eye conditions.
In conclusion, dark chocolate can be beneficial for your overall health if you choose the right type of dark chocolate. In order to make the most out of this superfood, choose a variety that is organic and comes from a reputable brand. Make sure it is not loaded with sugar, as this will counteract all the healthy benefits. Eat small amounts every day to make sure you're getting the most out of your dark chocolate.
