Dark chocolate is considered to be a healthy product due to its peculiar characteristics. Unsurprisingly, it’s bitter in comparison to other types of chocolates. And the bitterness depends on the amount of cocoa that chocolate has. In fact, cocoa is a source of antioxidants and has nutritious features. Additionally, all brands of dark chocolate differ in terms of their nutritional values.
According to nutritionists, a person might consume about 270 discretionary calories a day. Discretionary calories are extra calories that you can enjoy after satisfying your main nutritional needs. Accordingly, instead of consuming donuts, have a piece of dark chocolate. Though, do not consume more than you’re allowed. By consuming the right portion of of this product, you can get the maximum benefit. And the list of the benefits of dark chocolate you can read in this article.
Dark chocolate is a source of antioxidants
Dark chocolate has high contents of biologically active compounds that function as antioxidants. These compounds include catechins, flavanols, and polyphenols. Antioxidants are very important in protecting our bodies against toxins, chemicals, and even cancerous cells. Thus, chocolate protects us against cancerous cells, since it is rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids are able to fight off free radicals. Notably, free radicals are responsible for damaging body cells and causing stress. Therefore, dark chocolate is important in alleviating these health problems.
Flavanols in dark chocolate also help to improve the functioning of vascular endothelium. Consequently, it lowers the risk of heart diseases. Moreover, flavanols help to lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation. They also make the platelets less sticky and reduce the risk of blood clots. Numerous studies have shown that flavanols in chocolate help to boost vision. This is made possible since flavanols improve blood flow to the retina which improves visual acuity and contrast sensitivity.
It is nutrishious
Other than being rich in antioxidants, dark chocolate is also rich in other nutrients. Mainly, these are copper, iron, magnesium, and manganese. Let’s discuss in short about the influence of these nutrients on human body.
First, copper triggers the release of iron, which is responsible for the formation of hemoglobin. In fact, iron nutrient plays a key role in the formation of red blood cells. It’s well known that the level of hemoglobin affects transportation of oxygen in body.
Second, magnesium ensures efficient functioning of our whole bodies. Notably, this element is in each and every molecule of human organs. It is responsible for many functions starting from formation of energy and ending with regulation of nervous system . Additionally, it helps to enhance workout performance. Also, magnesium helps in formation of protein and regulates muscle movement.
Increases the efficiency of brain functions
Cocoa, which is one of the main ingredients of dark chocolate, contains stimulants- theobromine and caffeine. Actually, these stimulants help to improve the functioning of a brain. To be more precise, this occurs through increased blood flow to the brain. Additionally, chocolate prevents memory loss while improving verbal fluency and cognitive abilities at the same time.
Helps to get rid of harmful cholesterol
Surprisingly, dark chocolate helps to lower levels of cholesterol in your body. Moreover, it positively affects insulin resistance, as well as the risk of heart diseases. These benefits occur due to cocoa butter contained in chocolate. Cocoa butter has oleic acid which is responsible for raising high-density lipoprotein in your body. At the same time oleic acid lowers oxidation of low-density lipoprotein. Simply saying, you can protect yourself from “bad cholesterol” which clogs arteries and causes cardiovascular diseases.
Some other benefits
Theobromine contained in dark chocolate is very important in improving your oral health. This is by fighting off bacteria which may cause tooth decay. Additionally, it contains acids that affect the areas of brain responsible for the feelings of reward and happiness. As a result of eating this product, you can improve your mood.
Conclusion
As compared to processed chocolate, dark chocolate has impressive health benefits. Regardless of the advantages of consuming this sweet product, it is very important to know the right portion. Thus, doctors recommend about 20g of plain dark chocolate. In fact, plain dark chocolate is more preferable because other flavored chocolates contain high levels of sugar and salt. Now you know that this type of chocolate can constitute a good supplement to a healthy diet.
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