The Surprising Benefits of Dark Chocolate: A Dark Side

 

Why Dark Chocolate is a Superfood

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Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and is thought to have health benefits. Dark chocolate-containing foods are considered to be healthy by the American Dietetic Association and the World Health Organization. 

Some of the health benefits of dark chocolate include: 

• Lowering the risk of heart disease
• Cancer 
• Stroke and dementia 
• Helping with weight loss
• Arthritis pain relief and more

The darker the chocolate, the better! 

What is Cacao? 

Cacao is a tree-like tropical evergreen that grows in warm climates. The plant produces large leaves and bears flowers that produce beans. These beans are harvested, toasted and fermented. They’re then ground up into a fine powder before being used as cocoa or chocolate. 

The Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Dark Chocolate 

Dark chocolate is a red food and as such contains high amounts of antioxidants. Antioxidants can help to protect the body from free radicals, protect DNA in cells and prevent further damage to cells. Dark chocolate also has a low glycemic index which can help people keep their blood sugar levels stable when having it for breakfast or as part of their diet. 

Dark chocolate contains polyphenols which many studies show can be helpful in reducing inflammation in the body, contributing to weight loss, improving heart health, and cognitive function. 

Can chocolate cause a heart attack? 

The concern with eating any type of chocolate is that it can contain high amounts of sugar. Additionally, the fat content in chocolate is generally high and could contribute to an increased risk for heart disease.

Dark Chocolate & Your Diet 

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The antioxidants in dark chocolate may help maintain a healthy body weight. Dark chocolate offers other benefits as well, such as it contains heart-healthy antioxidants and nutrients.

Health Tips: 

When you eat three squares of dark chocolate every day, you can achieve the same weight loss results seen by eating just one square per day. 

• Dark chocolate is also a healthy snack when eaten in moderation.
• 1/3 cup of dark chocolate is equal to 5 squares, which are approximately 15 calories each. 

Eating small portions of dark chocolate every day can increase your daily intake of flavonoids. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants found in plant-based foods that provide a wide range of health benefits. Dark chocolate also provides an instant energy boost, improves your mood, and reduces anxiety.

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