Indeed, this is quite true, as based on scientific research findings that may very well alter the image of chocolate forever -- from junk food to health food! Isn't it quite refreshing? Millions all over the world would be thrilled to know that the treat they all love is also very beneficial for our health.
Well, before, we start getting excited over this, let us discover what the scientific studies have found out about chocolate, dark chocolate in particular - the type that quite a lot of people favor.
Findings have sufficient proof to declare that dark chocolate contains much more health benefits compared to white chocolate and milk chocolate. These two latter types actually have higher contents of fat and lesser health benefits to consumers.
Dark chocolate, also considered as bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, has been found to be very beneficial for people. One of its foremost benefits is that it enhances your mood and keeps you on a lighter, happier state of emotion. It has serotonin that affects a person much like an anti-depressant would.
Furthermore, aside from soothing us and lightening up our mood, it also improves the flexibility of our blood vessels and thus, eases the circulation of blood in our system.
Another outstanding aspect of chocolate that is very beneficial for people is the fact that nutrients can be found in it, that are now known to prevent cancer. Cacao, an ingredient which dark chocolate has in abundance, contains antioxidants that are essential for the body to have in order to fight free radicals that cause heart ailments and other types of diseases.
Flavonoids can be found in chocolate and is a major enemy of free radicals that may come from other foodstuffs ingested by the body or absorbed from the environment. Flavonoids, called Epicatechins and Catechins, help a lot in protecting the body's immune system. This is why, consuming chocolate with higher cacao content, or consuming dark chocolate for that matter is healthier.
Who would think that even with the delightfully thick and velvety texture of chocolate, minerals are present in it, minerals such as iron and magnesium? Now, you know that even if you cannot resist chocolate, you are not wasting yourself away. As long as you keep it moderate, eating chocolate is perfectly healthy!
The antioxidants in chocolate have been found beneficial for joints and help in reducing pain and stiffness caused by arthritis. Getting better sleep for a well rested you on the following day is another benefits offered by chocolate's antioxidants. Vitamin B is also present which significantly increase the energy level of the brain and body.
Who says that eating chocolate would increase your calorie consumption leading to higher cholesterol and blood pressure levels? Well, they are mistaken. Eating dark chocolate actually even helps lower the cholesterol and blood pressure levels of the body. That's definitely a resounding "Yay!" for all chocolate lovers. Even if chocolate has fats and cholesterol, they are the good kind that does not interfere with production of insulin in the body.
Who says you will become a diabetic if you eat chocolate? These people got it all wrong - a healthy dose of dark chocolate is beneficial for diabetics, who must constantly limit their sugar consumption. Since dark chocolate is low in carbohydrates, it is good for diabetics.
However, citing the health benefits of chocolate does not mean that you have to start eating loads of chocolate now. As in all things, excessiveness is not healthy. Remember to keep things in moderation - especially in consuming your favorite chocolate.
