Dark chocolate is widely touted for improving health due to its antioxidant content. The news is good for many Americans who enjoy the flavor of the treat. In 2007, Americans purchased nearly $2 billion of dark chocolate, in part due to its reputation as a healthy food, according to Marcia Mogelonsky, an analyst with research firm Mintel International.
Appetite Suppressant
Eating dark chocolate reduces your appetite, according to a 2008 study by the University of Copenhagen. The study's researchers found that people who ate dark chocolate felt satiated afterward for a longer period than those who ate milk chocolate. The mechanism of action may be the bitter taste of dark chocolate that regulates appetite, or the higher cocoa butter content that can slow digestion.
Insulin Sensitivity
Consuming dark chocolate improves insulin sensitivity, according to a 2005 study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition." The study's researchers, led by Davide Grassi from the University of L'Aquila in Italy, found that the antioxidant properties in dark chocolate increase the bioavailability of nitric oxide, which influences insulin's uptake of glucose.
Blood Vessel Health
Eating dark chocolate improves cardiovascular health by reducing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which can decrease the likelihood of suffering from atherosclerosis, according to a 2001 study published in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition." The study's researchers found that dark chocolate's flavonoids are responsible for inhibiting LDL oxidation.
Better Circulation
Consuming dark chocolate improves circulation, according to a 2004 study published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition." The study's researchers found that the flavonoids in dark chocolate improve endothelial function, which increases blood flow. Inhibited circulation can lead to lowered metabolism in the areas of the body where blood flow is impaired, which might lead to obesity.
References
- ScienceDaily.com: Dark Chocolate Is More Filling Than Milk Chocolate And Lessens Cravings
- "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition": Short-term administration of dark chocolate is followed by a significant increase in insulin sensitivity and a decrease in blood pressure in healthy persons
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition": Effects of cocoa powder and dark chocolate on LDL oxidative susceptibility and prostaglandin concentrations in humans
- "Journal of the American College of Nutrition": Flavonoid-Rich Dark Chocolate Improves Endothelial Function and Increases Plasma Epicatechin Concentrations in Healthy Adults
- Reuters: U.S. dark chocolate sales soar on health benefits
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