5 proven health benefits of dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is gotten from the seed of a cocoa tree and it is loaded with nutrients and also serve as one of the best sources of anti-oxidant in the world.
It has been discovered through research that dark chocolate also helps in improving the overall health of humans and also lower the risk of heart disease.
Here are 5 proven health benefits of dark chocolate
1. High volume of Antioxidants
Dark chocolate contains a whole lot of compunds such as polyphenols, flavanols and catechins, among others that function as antioxidants.
A study on cocoa and dark chocolate revealed that it contains more antioxidants than any other fruit in the world.
2. Highly nutritious
Quality dark chocolate contains high cocoa content and is highly nutritious. It contains soluble fibre and is filled with minerals like iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc and selenium.
As much as it is very healthy, it should still be consumed in moderation because it contains a lot of calories and sugar. Dark chocolate also has an excellent amount of fatty acids, mostly saturated and monosaturated.
3. Help prevent heart disease
Studies conducted on 470 elderly men over a period of 15 years showed that cocoa can reduce the risk of dying due to heart diseases by 50%.
It is safe to say that through observational studies, people who consume a reasonable amount of cocoa or dark chocolate have a lower chance of having heart diseases.
4. Aid blood flow and reduces blood pressure
Dark chocolates contains flavanols ehich stimulates the artery lining in the production of Nitric oxide. The nitric oxide sends signals to the arteries to relax which automatically reduces blood pressure.
5. Enhance Brain Function
A study conducted on healthy volunteers have shown that regular intake of cocoa rich in flavanol for 5 days improves blood flow to the brain.
Stimulants like caffeine and theobromine found in cocoa could improve brain function in the short term.