By Indulge in the heart-healthy pleasure of dark chocolate, a rich and satisfying treat that supports cardiovascular well-being.
Chocolate lovers, rejoice! While it’s no secret that dark chocolate is a delightful treat, you might be surprised to learn that this indulgent snack offers more than just a moment of pleasure. Dark chocolate is a superfood in disguise, packed with powerful antioxidants, essential nutrients, and mood-enhancing compounds.
In this post, we’ll explore six incredible benefits of eating more dark chocolate and delve into the relevant research that backs up these claims.
One: Rich in Antioxidants
It’s packed with antioxidants, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants can protect against oxidative stress linked to aging and various diseases.
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that dark chocolate has higher antioxidant activity than other superfoods like blueberries and acai berries. Consuming antioxidant-rich dark chocolate can contribute to overall health and longevity.
Two: Heart Health
It’s rich in flavonoids, particularly flavonols, which have been shown to improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow to the brain and heart, and reducing the risk of blood clots.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that dark chocolate consumption is associated with improved vascular function, crucial for preventing heart disease and stroke. Another study in the British Medical Journal suggested that regular consumption of cocoa and dark chocolate could reduce the risk of heart disease by one-third.
Three: Brain Function
Brain health can also be positively affected. Its flavonoids have been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function, attention, and memory.
A study in the journal Appetite found that participants who consumed dark chocolate experienced improved cognitive performance compared to those who did not. Additionally, dark chocolate contains stimulants like caffeine and theobromine, which can enhance mental alertness and focus.
Four: Weight Loss and Appetite Control
While it may seem counterintuitive, dark chocolate can be a helpful ally in weight management. Its high cocoa content provides a feeling of satiety, which can reduce cravings for sweet, salty, and fatty foods.
A study published in the International Archives of Medicine found that dark chocolate can aid in weight loss when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The key is to choose high-quality dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa and consume it mindfully.
Five: Mood Enhancement
Feeling down? Reach for some dark chocolate!
Consuming dark chocolate can have mood-enhancing effects thanks to its phenylethylamine (PEA) content, a natural mood booster.
PEA stimulates the brain to release endorphins, the feel-good hormones that can help alleviate stress and improve mood.
A study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that dark chocolate participants reported improved mood and reduced stress levels. Dark chocolate also contains tryptophan, an amino acid precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood.
Six: Skin Health
The flavonoids in dark chocolate can also benefit skin health by protecting against sun damage, improving blood flow, and increasing skin density and hydration.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that participants who consumed high-flavonoid dark chocolate had improved skin hydration and thickness and reduced erythema (redness) in response to UV exposure.
Another study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology reported that regular consumption of dark chocolate can enhance skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Key takeaways
Incorporating dark chocolate into your diet can offer a range of health benefits, from improved cardiovascular health to enhanced mood, cognitive function, and skin health.
Choosing dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is important, and consuming it in moderation to reap these benefits without consuming excessive calories or sugar. As with any dietary choice, it’s essential to maintain a balanced and varied diet for overall well-being.
Raspberry Coconut Chocolate Bars
Ingredients
What you need to buy
- 140 g desiccated coconut
- 190 frozen raspberries
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp maple syrup
- 250 g 80% dark chocolate
Instructions
What you need to do
- Line a loaf tin with baking paper.
- Add the desiccated coconut, raspberries, vanilla extract, and maple syrup to a food processor and pulse until the mixture comes together for a few seconds.
- Press the mixture into the loaf tin and place it in the freezer for 1-2 hours until solid. Slice into 16 even-sized bars and place them back in the freezer while you melt the chocolate using your preferred method.
- Spear each bar using two forks and dip it in the melted chocolate before placing it on a baking sheet lined with baking paper.
- Once each bar has been coated in chocolate, place the bars back into the freezer to set.
Notes
Nutritional breakdown
- Kcal:173
- Fats(g):13
- Carbs(g): 14
- Protein(g): 2
- Fibre(g): 3
These bars are:
- Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Free
- Low-Carb
- Meal Prep Friendly
- Vegan