Those who eat chocolate habitually have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke as compared to those who did not. Here are some facts about chocolate and its health benefits:-
- Our normally body processes and contaminants in the environment like cigarette smoke form free radicals which can damage body cells. And to combat the damage causes by the free radicals, the body needs antioxidants. Cocoa and chocolate contain flavanols and also certain polyphenols and catechins which in addition to having antioxidant capabilities also positively affect vascular health.
They can help to lower the blood pressure, make the platelets less sticky and improve the blood flow. - It is important to note, however, here is that not all forms of chocolate contain high levels of flavanols. Cocoa is processed to produce chocolate. The more it is processed, the more flavanols are lost. And most of the commercially available chocolates are highly processed.
- Highest levels of flavanols are contained in dark chocolate than white chocolates.
- A good fat profile of chocolate is that it contains calories, the fat contained in it are mostly saturated and monounsaturated with small amounts of the polyunsaturated kind. Chocolates are a rich source of selenium, zinc, manganese, magnesium, copper and fibre.
- Dark chocolates may also lower the susceptibility of bad cholesterol to exidative damage while increasing the good cholesterol.
It also improves insulin sensitivity which is indicative of the fact that if dark chocolate is consumed in moderation, it may actually delay or even prevent the onset of diabetes. - Chocolate can also help one lose weight. A small piece of choclate relished on the tongue for 20 minutes before a meal can trigger a sense of fullness, reducing the amount of food one would eat. Also, a small piece at the end of the meal can prevent subsequent snacking a.
- If you are feeling low in mood, it can also make you feel better and enhance your mood.
- Only dark chocolates will keep you smiling, lose weight, diabetes at bay, improves cholesterol, lowers blood pressure and keeps blood flowing with antioxidants which in turn help your vascular health.
- Never forget the fact that dark chocolates need to be eaten in moderation.
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