Dark chocolate is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. It contains substantial amounts of important minerals like copper, magnesium, manganese and zinc. It is also loaded with polyphenol antioxidants, especially flavonoids like catechins and proanthocyanidins. These substances can have various health benefits, from improving heart health to boosting brain function. It is very high in antioxidants compared to other foods. In fact, it is one of the highest dietary sources of antioxidants known to man. The polyphenol content of it is even higher than in red wine or green tea. What's more, darker chocolate contains more polyphenols than lighter or milk chocolate.
Eating it regularly has been associated with lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease in several observational studies. Dark Chocolate is related to its high antioxidants levels. Some key way benefits heart health include reducing oxidative stress, lowering "bad" LDL cholesterol levels, improving blood vessel function, lowering inflammation and reducing platelet aggregation. When consumed in moderation by healthy individuals, appears to offer protection against cardiovascular disease and can be considered a healthy part of an overall heart-healthy diet.
It Boosts Brain Function and Mood
The antioxidants in it make it great for brain health as well. Several studies link flavanols (a type of antioxidant found abundantly in it) to improved cognitive performance, including enhanced verbal fluency, visual-spatial ability, working memory and attention. They seem to increase blood flow to the brain and protect neurons from damage. Eating a small amount of it daily may help keep your brain more youthful as you age. It can also boost mood by increasing endorphin and serotonin levels. This brain chemical combination can offer feelings of pleasure and well-being for several hours after eating it.
Dark Chocolate Promotes Weight Loss
In contrast to popular belief, enjoying some may actually be beneficial for weight control. The complex blend of antioxidants, stimulants and other compounds in good-quality dark chocolate can boost metabolism and curb appetite. Studies show it can significantly reduce levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin while increasing levels of hormone PYY, which signals fullness to your brain. This makes you feel more satisfied and prevents overeating. The stimulants in it like theobromine are also thought to burn extra fat and calories after consumption. Taking advantage of these effects in moderation as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle may aid long-term weight loss.
It Lowers Diabetes Risk
The flavanols in it have impressive benefits for regulating blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. Several cell and animal studies link cocoa consumption to enhanced insulin signaling, blood glucose disposal and protection of pancreatic beta cells from oxidative stress. Meanwhile, clinical studies show eating a modest amount of high-flavanol dark chocolate daily lowers the risk of developing diabetes by up to a third. The mechanisms aren't fully understood, but it seems capable of improving whole-body insulin sensitivity and inhibiting the onset of type 2 diabetes when incorporated sensibly.
Dark Chocolate Fights Inflammation
Inflammation appears to play a role in virtually all chronic diseases. Luckily, it contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. Its antioxidant polyphenols significantly reduce secretion of pro-inflammatory signaling molecules in the body. They may benefit inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, asthma or inflammatory bowel disease. Even more impressive, its flavanols have been found to cut levels of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood. Maintaining a diet rich in it anti-inflammatory nutrients may lower overall chronic inflammation and protect against age-related inflammatory ailments.
Other Health Perks
Some additional health advantages of it that research is still exploring include reduced stress response, better dental health, enhanced immune function, healthier skin and more restful sleep. The antioxidants and stimulants in it appear capable of supporting many facets of overall wellness in small amounts. Some studies note it can aid liver function and reduce osteoporosis risk. The high magnesium content makes it a great energy booster. So in moderation as part of a nutritious diet, a little daily dark chocolate can offer multiple health perks. Your best choice is eating 60-70% or higher cacao for the greatest antioxidant levels.
As you can see, recent scientific evidence shows it offers an impressive array of health benefits when consumed sparingly by healthy individuals. Its high antioxidant content is the driving factor behind better cardiovascular, brain, mood and anti-inflammatory effects. Paired with a nutritious lifestyle, it looks to be more than just a tasty treat - it can play a role in disease prevention and overall wellness as well. Just be sure to choose quality dark chocolate high in cacao for the highest antioxidant properties and avoid overindulging. In moderation, it is mighty healthy indeed.
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