7 Dark chocolate health benefits

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is also known as “plain chocolate” as it contains 50-90% cocoa solids, cocoa butter with all fat content coming from cocoa butter instead of milk.

It is a storehouse of all the essential antioxidants and minerals. So, eating dark chocolate is not only a pleasure but it provides you with many health benefits.

1: Dark chocolate prevents heart diseases.

Dark chocolates are rich in flavonoids which lowers the risk of heart diseases. Consumption of cocoa also lowers the risk of insulin resistance and high blood pressure.

Eating dark chocolate two or more times a week lowers the risk of having the calcified plague. Regular consumption of chocolate has a positive effect on cardiovascular diseases. Since dark chocolate is not loaded with sugar and saturated fat, it is a heart-healthy treat.

Studies and researches have shown a drastic reduction in heart diseases among people who consume the most chocolate.

2: Dark chocolate prevents depression.

Chocolate contains components like theobromine, anandamide, and phenethylamine that helps in preventing depression.

When theobromine is consumed in larger amounts, it can lower blood pressure, excitability, and also give energy. Theobromine is quite similar to caffeine.

Anandamide is a mood and energy-boosting component without addiction and cardiovascular damage. Anandamide is structurally similar to THC( Tetra hydro cannabinol).

Phenethylamine is also a mood and energy-boosting component which is metabolized in the body into serotonin. Serotonin is a mood-regulating chemical that is produced by the body.

3:Dark chocolate is good for high blood pressure and regulates the blood flow.

Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols. Falanols present in dark chocolate stimulates the endothelium to produce nitric oxide (NO), which lowers the resistance of blood flow and blood pressure.

Chocolate in a moderate amount is healthy but excess of it can increase the risk of obesity, which naturally increases the chances of high blood pressure and heart diseases.

4: Dark chocolate raises HDL and protects LDL from oxidation.

Since chocolate is a heart-healthy treat, it can improve several important risk factors for heart diseases. Cocoa decreases oxidized LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) also know as bad cholesterol.

It acts as antioxidants that flow through the bloodstream and protects lipoproteins against oxidative damage.

Dark chocolate lowers the susceptibility of LDL to oxidative damage, on the other hand increasing HDL (High-density lipoprotein) or the good cholesterol. It also improves insulin sensitivity.

5: Dark chocolate protects the skin from the sun.

The bioactive compounds present in dark chocolate are great for the skin. The flavonols in dark chocolate protect the skin from sun damage as it improves the blood flow through the skin and also increases the skin density and hydration.

Chocolate is rich in vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron, and calcium which nourishes the skin and replaces the lost moisture. It also detoxifies the skin and sloughs off the dead skin cells, making the skin look fresh and radiant.

It also prevents the skin from aging and protects it from the harmful UV rays because of the antioxidants flavonoids present in it.

But, excess of cocoa can cause allergic skin reactions because cocoa contains caffeine and chemicals.

6: Cocoa improves brain function.

Eating dark chocolate improves blood flow through the brain and hence improves the function of the brain. Chocolate is rich in natural neuroprotective compounds and antioxidant compounds called flavanols. Cocoa contains caffeine and theobromine which are some of the reasons for improving brain function.

Dark chocolate improves memory and also reduces stress. Chocolate changes the wave frequency in the brain and improves memory. Chocolate can pump up adrenaline and improve concentration during the study.

7: Dark chocolate can prevent diabetes.

Consuming a small amount of diabetes every day can reduce the risk of diabetes. It contains high cocoa solids and a lower amount of carbs which won’t affect the sugar level.

Cocoa contains polyphenols that have antioxidant properties that improve insulin sensitivity which in turn helps in controlling the blood sugar level.

Dark chocolate is healthy when consumed in a moderate amount, eating too much chocolate may cause caffeine-related side effects like sleeplessness, fast heartbeat, nervousness, increased urination, it can also cause skin allergies, constipation, and can trigger migraine headaches.

Eating too much dark chocolate can increase calories and result in weight gain. Cocoa can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising in patients having bleeding disorders. Caffeine present in cocoa can also make anxiety disorders worse if consumed in a large amount.

Here at gardeninfograph we try to bring in front of you many relatable topics that are can add up to a healthy diet in your homes to keep your family and friends healthy. Some topics that we have covered are 5 powerful Ayurvedic herbs, green tea, avocado, cardamom, Oregano, garlic, olives, Fennel, apple cider vinegar, mung beans, honey, and you will find many more