Dark chocolate can promote health, as long as the chocolate’s cocoa content is at least 70 percent.
From a health perspective, dark chocolate is one of the best treats even with its calories. Stefano Tinti
Dark chocolate has a reputation as a forbidden delicacy for nothing, as it is good for both the heart and the mind. Here are 6 good reasons why you don’t even have to try to avoid chocolate.
1. Good for the heart
Those who eat chocolate every week seem to be less likely to get atrial fibrillation-rhythm disorder than others, says a Danish study. The effect is not very large, but due to the prevalence of atrial fibrillation, even a small benefit is welcome.
The study did not clarify in more detail what kind of chocolate the participants ate, but the vast majority of chocolate was probably milk chocolate.
2. Lowers blood pressure
The vascular effects of chocolate have been studied by comparing dark and white chocolate. Based on the analysis, the use of dark chocolate for 2-18 weeks reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 3 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 2 mmHg. The daily consumption of chocolate in the studies ranged from 4 to 100 grams. However, the drop in blood pressure was not clearly related to the amount consumed.
The most significant effect was seen in studies lasting no more than two weeks. In studies investigating long-term use, the result remained unclear.
3. Plenty of trace elements
Dark chocolate contains plenty of iron, copper, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus, which are essential for the body.
Eating chocolate increases serotonin, which increases the feeling of pleasure.
4. Antioxidants
Cocoa and dark chocolate contain flavonoids, which are strong antioxidants. Flavonoids are good for heart health and improve blood circulation in the brain.
5. Controls cough
According to a study by the University of Hull, cough medicines containing cocoa in particular curbed coughing and helped patients sleep. Cocoa contains substances that relieve irritation, so sucking a piece of chocolate can also suppress a cough.
6. Feeling good
Eating chocolate increases serotonin, which increases the feeling of pleasure. A small piece of chocolate raises energy levels and helps you cope with everyday life.
Of course, there are a lot of calories in chocolate, but from a health perspective, dark chocolate is one of the best treats even with its calories, as long as you can only eat a few pieces at a time.
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