Is Dark Chocolate Good For You?
When people think about health and wellness, they do not typically associate dark chocolate as one of the foods they can and should eat. The dark chocolate health benefits are numerous. The tasty dessert is a key part of any healthy living lifestyle. Whether a person is aiming for a diet that is good for the heart or a diet that will help them shed a few pounds, dark chocolate is a great choice. The key is choosing candy bars or treats that are only made of dark chocolate. Milk chocolate or white chocolate does not offer the same health benefits as dark chocolate.
Dark Chocolate and the Cardiovascular System
Studies have proven one of the dark chocolate health benefits is the support of a healthy cardiovascular system. The properties inside the cocoa actually increase the body’s blood flow and effectively lower a persons blood pressure. The cocoa also helps reduce and remove the plaque that tends to line the arteries causing a decrease in blood flow, which ultimately raises a persons blood pressure.
Antioxidant Power of Dark Chocolate
Antioxidants are a popular term in the health industry. The powerful antioxidants help revitalize cells in the human body and make them stronger. Typically, blueberries and green tea are the go to foods to get these powerful antioxidants. Researchers have discovered cocoa, derived from the cacao plant, contain the same antioxidants. Antioxidants are a major contributor to the overall health and wellness of every person.
Cholesterol Lowering Properties
Another study about dark chocolate health benefits discovered the amazing ability to help a person lower levels of LDL or bad cholesterol levels. Consuming 1 ounce of dark chocolate everyday over a period of 7 days increased HDL levels as well. Healthy living does not mean a person is limited to broccoli and spinach. It is possible to enjoy a luxury like chocolate without negatively affecting a persons overall health and wellness.
Reduce the Risk of Stroke with Dark Chocolate
A group of researchers evaluated several studies and discovered that people who regularly ate dark chocolate had a reduced risk of suffering a stroke by as much as 45 percent than those who did not eat chocolate. It is important to keep in mind, dark chocolates that are made with at least 70 percent cocoa solids are necessary to achieve the desired health benefits.
Conclusion
As with any food, moderation is the key to healthy living. Dark chocolate health benefits are real, but the chocolate is fattening. Part of healthy living is maintaining a healthy weight. Experts suggest 1 ounce of the tasty food everyday is sufficient.