The health benefits of dark chocolate
Chocolate has a reputation for being a sinfully sweet treat that is full of calories and sugar. Well, take heart chocolate lovers, the dark variety is coming and science now tells us that it is a super healthy food.
Dark chocolate that is at least 70 percent cocoa contains a high amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals in our body. Why is this good? Free radicals are a byproduct of the natural oxidation process that occurs within our bodies. Our bodies are like machines that generate fuel from our food intake so that we can live and be active. At the same time free radicals are created; as a waste product. Free radicals cause disease, illness, and the aging process!
Dark chocolate is also a low-glycemic food, and that’s good news for those who are diabetic or trying to lose weight. Be careful here though, it still has its share of calories so overdoing it is not recommended. The fact that it has a low glycemic index means that it does not create an insulin response that triggers reactions in the body that contribute to weight gain, especially around the waist.
Now we hear about chronic inflammation and the deleterious effects it has on the body, particularly the heart. Well, dark chocolate decreases inflammation in your body and protects the heart, thus reducing the incidence of heart disease. Studies now show that it also increases blood flow to the brain and this, in turn, increases memory and alertness. Sounds like a good snack option for those studying for a test!
The health benefits of dark chocolate are numerous and discoveries are still being made. Just remember that a bar must contain at least 70 percent cocoa and if it doesn’t say this percentage on the label, then it doesn’t contain enough cocoa to give you these health benefits. I have seen many chocolate bars on the market that are only labeled “dark”, so be sure to read the label carefully. As with all foods, moderation is key; Dark chocolate is not low in calories, so limit yourself to a small bar each day maximum.
Dark chocolate is known to taste bitter with these high levels of cocoa. New preparation methods have resulted in a creamier taste while maintaining its health benefits. So if you haven’t tried a bar because you think you won’t like it, try it again, you might be pleasantly surprised!