Nine health benefits of eating dark chocolate

If you can not stay a day without bingeing on chocolate, you may be surprised to learn that it could do wonders for your health.

Now, let's clear things up: we are not talking about milk and white, but plain (unflavoured) dark chocolate – the higher the percentage of cocoa, the better.

In the end, dark chocolate is not only an excellent product, but it also has many health benefits.

Here are all the ways that your dark chocolate habit could contribute to your physical and mental health.

This could reduce your risk of depression

Most people are aware that chocolate chewing has glorious powers to stimulate mood, but scientists have focused the breadth of its wellbeing properties – and they are quite amazing.

A study of about 13,000 adults found that dark chocolate consumption can reduce the risk of depression by up to 70%.

Key dark chocolate compounds – such as flavonoids and phenylethylamine (PEA) – have a similar mood-boosting effect to cannabis.

Its well-being properties have sparked reflections on its use as a potential alternative to antidepressants, according to the patient.

Can improve blood flow and blood pressure

The flavonoids contained in dark chocolate contribute to the production of nitric oxide in the inner lining of blood vessels. They help relax the blood vessels and improve blood flow, which lowers blood pressure.

Excellent news.

It's great for your skin

Flavonoids in dark chocolate can also help protect against sun damage.

Just be sure not to drop sunscreen – you will still need a lot of that. Chocolate alone is not enough to protect you completely from the sun.

Dark chocolate also prevents the breakdown of collagen – the protein that keeps skin fleshy and youthful. In other words, if you can not afford high-quality anti-aging serums, make sure your cupboards are full of brown stuff.

It feels good

Not only does chocolate taste good, but you feel good too, and there is a real science.

When dark chocolate is consumed, the brain releases endorphins – chemicals in the brain that create feelings of pleasure. In fact, chocolate contains PEA, which is the same chemical that your brain creates when you feel in love. Aw.

Rich in antioxidants

Do not think that fruits, vegetables and fish are the only foods rich in antioxidants. Dark chocolate is too, and it also contains minerals such as magnesium, potbadium, zinc, selenium and iron.

Antioxidants are important because they help protect cells against the damage caused by free radicals, which can play a role in heart disease and cancer. The more you consume antioxidants, the better.

Reduce levels of "bad" cholesterol

Research has shown that cocoa can reduce levels of "bad" cholesterol (also called LDL). But not only that, it also increases the levels of "good" cholesterol, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

This can help you lose weight

Contrary to popular belief, a small portion of chocolate can actually help you lose weight.

A square or two of dark chocolate can leave you feeling full longer and less likely to nibble before your next meal.

Eating a small amount of dark chocolate will also help reduce sweet cravings – useful for those trying to lose weight.

It also contains healthy fats, which slow down the absorption of sugar in the blood, thus preventing a spike of insulin (which directs the sugar directly into your fat cells).

Good for your brain

The benefits do not stop there: dark chocolate can also be beneficial for your brain.

Cocoa has been shown to improve cognitive function in the elderly and its anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of brain damage such as concussion.

One study also found that dark chocolate consumption leads to an increase in gamma frequency in brain cortical regions – areas involved in the treatment of memory and sensory processing. The results indicate that dark chocolate has important beneficial effects on brain health.

Could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes

Nibbling a small amount of dark chocolate each day can improve insulin sensitivity and, therefore, help control blood sugar levels. So eating it (in moderation) can delay and even prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

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