Dark Chocolate: 11 Health Benefits Of Eating Dark Chocolate Daily
1. It boosts mental health - It contains Polyphenols and antioxidants that lower the stress hormone cortisol- you feel better after eating dark chocolate.
2. Improves blood circulation - Dark chocolate can strengthen blood vessels as flavanols stimulate the arteries' lining to produce nitric oxide, neutralizing blood pressure.
3. Lowers risk of heart disease - Compounds present in dark chocolate can improve your heart health allowing proper blood flow, and preventing blood clotting, inflammation, and cell damage.
4. Source of minerals - Dark chocolate is rich in vital minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and phosphorus. These minerals support various body functions such as immunity, bone and teeth health, and sleep quality.
5. Keeps you full - It would not be wrong to declare dark chocolate a whole food as it is loaded with plenty of nutrients along with adequate levels of fiber. But, moderation is the key.
6. Strengthens immune system - Since it is a powerhouse of antioxidants that function to protect it from the harmful effects of internal and external damaging factors thus strengthens your immune system.
7. Improve brain functioning - The cocoa's high flavanol content significantly improves brain blood flow, verbal fluency, and cognitive function, especially in the elderly.
8. Protects skin from sun - The antioxidants in dark chocolate improve blood flow to your skin, increase skin's density, and protect it from sun damage.
9. Cancer-protective properties - High flavonols in cocoa help to protect cells from reactive and harmful molecules, fight inflammation, and induce the death of cancer cells.
10. Can improve Type 2 diabetes symptoms - Flavanols in cocoa can slow carbohydrate digestion and absorption. This improves insulin secretion and reduces inflammation.
11. Can be a healthy snack - With a whole bunch of minerals and antioxidants it can serve as a healthy snack option. Just make sure you are not eating a lot of it late at night.