Benefits of Dark chocolate

The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate, often known as the "food of the gods," is not only a delightful treat but also packed with beneficial nutrients. It is made from the seed of the cocoa tree and is one of the best sources of antioxidants on the planet. Here, we delve into the numerous health benefits of dark chocolate.

Rich in Nutrients

A high-quality dark chocolate bar with a high cocoa content is quite nutritious. It contains a decent amount of soluble fiber and is loaded with minerals. A 100-gram bar of dark chocolate with 70–85% cocoa contains 11 grams of fiber, 67% of the RDI for iron, 58% of the RDI for magnesium, 89% of the RDI for copper, and 98% of the RDI for manganese. It also has plenty of potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium.

Source of Antioxidants

Dark chocolate is loaded with organic compounds that function as antioxidants, including polyphenols, flavanols, catechins, among others. One study showed that cocoa and dark chocolate had more antioxidant activity, polyphenols, and flavanols than any other fruits tested, which included blueberries and acai berries.

Improves Heart Health

Dark chocolate can improve several important risk factors for heart disease. The bioactive compounds in cocoa can improve blood flow in the arteries and cause a small but statistically significant decrease in blood pressure. Dark chocolate can also reduce insulin resistance, which is another common risk factor for many diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

Boosts Brain Function

Dark chocolate may also improve the function of your brain. Cocoa may improve blood flow to the brain and improve brain function in elderly people with mental impairment. It may also improve cognitive function and verbal fluency. Additionally, the caffeine and theobromine in dark chocolate may be a key reason why it can improve brain function in the short term.

Protects Your Skin

The flavonols in dark chocolate can protect against sun damage, improve blood flow to the skin, and increase skin density and hydration. If you're planning a beach vacation, consider loading up on dark chocolate in the prior weeks and months.

Conclusion

Dark chocolate is one of the few foods that taste awesome while providing significant health benefits. It is loaded with nutrients that can positively affect your health. Made from the seed of the cocoa tree, it is one of the best sources of antioxidants on the planet. Just remember to choose quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, as not all forms of chocolate contain high levels of antioxidants and nutrients.