Why You Should Eat Chocolate
10 years ago
You may have heard (or hoped) that chocolate is good for you. It’s true, if you eat the right kind. Studies show that eating small amounts (7 ounces a week) of high-quality dark chocolate has health benefits. But it has to contain at least 70% cacao and be low in sugar and fat.
Here are the 3 biggest benefits of eating dark chocolate:
It lowers your risk of heart disease.
How?: Research indicates eating dark chocolate helps lower blood pressure. But it doesn’t work if you’re eating other things that are not healthy.
Why?: Dark chocolate contains flavonoids. These plant chemicals have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Foods rich in flavonoids have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.
It helps reduce the negative effects of stress.
How?: Scientists have found dark chocolate to reduce anxiety (probably why you crave it when you’re stressed!). It can also help you feel happier.
Why?: Dark chocolate raises endorphin levels in the brain, which give you an euphoric feeling. It also triggers serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter (signal to the brain) known to be an anti-depressant.
It may lower your Body Mass Index (BMI).
How?: Eating dark chocolate can help your body naturally regulate your weight.
Why?: BMI is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height that is an indicator of body fat. Dr. David Katz of Yale University says research suggests that antioxidants might play a role in reducing inflammation, and dark chocolate in particular might help balance the hormones that facilitate weight control.