Amazing Health Benefits of Chocolate

Calling All Chocolate Lovers! The next time someone tries to tell you that it’s bad for you, make sure you school them on the health benefits of chocolate, that way you can play a part in setting the record straight once and for all. 

Not All Chocolate Is Healthy Chocolate

First things first; If you’re looking to reap the benefits of eating chocolate, then understanding what chocolate to eat is the first step in the right direction. 

Indeed, the best chocolates for you to consume are the ones that remain as purely chocolate as possible. Because pure cocoa is so bitter, manufacturers often tend to add several other components (namely sugar) so that it’ll appeal to a broader audience. 

In other words, the closer you get to 100% cocoa, the better it is for you. Take dark chocolate for example; on average this good stuff has about 35 – 99% cocoa, which means it ranks higher in terms of health benefits.

Furthermore, what’s also important is the amount you consume. That’s right; the amount of chocolate consumed always needs to be taken in moderation. In fact, overindulging will result in spiked calorie counts and sugar intake.

Nutritional Value

When it comes to Recommended Daily Intake (RDI), chocolate with 70-85% cocoa provides very high percentages of iron, copper, and manganese. You’ll also benefit from added fiber, zinc, selenium, phosphorus, and potassium. So as you can see, the higher the percentage, the better it is for you to consume. 

Preventing Diabetes

Diabetes is caused by high blood glucose (sugar) levels in the body that cause insulin resistance. While you’ll still need to consume in moderation (especially if you are at risk for diabetes), studies have shown that dark chocolate can reduce oxidative stress. 

This reduction can help your body tolerate insulin better, thereby lessening the resistance it normally has against it.

More Endorphins Please

Speaking of endorphins, most know how beneficial they can be! However, most folks think that endorphins are obtained through regular exercise, which isn’t totally the case. Indeed, you can also get them from the flavanols in chocolate! 

It’s true, recent studies show that consuming natural cocoa causes the brain to release endorphins! So, that would explain the ‘feel good’ sensation you get when eating chocolate! 

Heart Health From Eating Chocolate

One of the most important organs in our body is our heart, so anything that we can do to help promote its function and health is a good idea.

Heart problems can range from something very small to a massive heart attack. Here again comes our friends in dark chocolate, the flavanols.

As for the heart, it produces nitric oxide, which is vital in lowering blood pressure and calming blood vessels. So once again, consuming dark chocolate (in moderation) seems to be another health benefit of chocolate! 

Reduce Preeclampsia

While preeclampsia is only something that pregnant women need to worry about, it’s important to note dark chocolate’s effects on it, considering how dangerous it can be. The stimulant theobromine can help keep the heart pumping and the arteries dilated.

In other terms, eating dark chocolate during pregnancy, in moderation, of course, can also dramatically reduce blood pressure! Plus, researchers have concluded that it also improves the blood flow to the baby! 

Going the Distance 

Aside from the caffeine you get from dark chocolate, it also helps to facilitate the growth of capillaries in your muscles, which send out more nutrients and oxygen to the muscles, creating a little extra energy.

So the next time you’re chomping on your favorite chocolate bar or snack, just remember, there’s no need to feel guilty! Also, the next time somebody says “chocolate isn’t healthy” you’ll officially be able to take them to school with the amazing facts about the natural wonders and health benefits of chocolate!