Do you enjoy chocolate as well? The 7th of July is recognized worldwide as World Chocolate Day, so this is your day. Even though we’ve grown up hearing about the detrimental effects of chocolate on our teeth and digestive systems, for many people it still ranks among the tastiest sweet pleasures. For intestinal health, dark chocolate is especially well-known for its advantages.
Some of the healthy bacteria in the stomach develop and get nourishment from dark chocolate. According to many sources, the percentage of cocoa in a chocolate bar determines whether it is healthier for us or not.
Scientific research indicates that just some dark chocolate in specific amounts may be beneficial. Compared to green tea, dark chocolate has many times more antioxidants. It also lowers blood pressure, raises cholesterol, and improves memory and brain function.
Here are 5 health benefits of dark chocolate for your body and mind:
It’s more nutritious and finer:
Dark chocolate contains at least 70% cocoa and many nutrients. It’s rich in iron, magnesium, copper and manganese. It’s also rich in calcium, potassium, zinc and vitamins A, B, E and K.
It provides antioxidants:
Dark chocolate is also known to contain antioxidants that help prevent cell damage in the body. Cocoa beans contain polyphenols, which are natural defensive compounds that are a type of antioxidant.
Gut Health:
Cocoa also helps promote the growth of good bacteria, and studies have shown that some good bacteria especially prefer dark chocolate.
Good for Heart Health:
Flavanols and polyphenols in chocolate are natural compounds that improve blood vessel function, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Controls Cholesterol Levels:
Compounds such as polyphenols also help control cholesterol levels. According to several studies, these compounds not only increase levels of good cholesterol, but also reduce levels of bad cholesterol.
