Overloading on chocolate could result in an expanded waistline, but moderate amounts are actually beneficial to your health. Chocolate does contain sugar and calories, so it is not something you want to indulge in all the time. Cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate, offers the most benefits, so it's best to choose a type that has at least a 65 percent cocoa content. One serving of chocolate is equivalent to 1 oz., according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Lowers Risk of Heart Disease
Chocolate has been shown to reduce the risk factors of heart disease by 32 percent for those who eat it once or twice a week, reports the AARP. This is because of the flavonol content in chocolate. Flavonols have been credited with reducing blood pressure, improving blood flow and reducing cholesterol levels. These benefits are higher with dark chocolate because it is not as full of sugar and fat as milk chocolate. Many candy bars are made with dark chocolate, but still contain high amounts of fat and calories, making them options to stay away from because too much can lead to weight gain, which increases your heart disease risk.
Reduces Cancer Risk
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, which help your body fight the free radical damage that is linked to the development of cancer. Free radicals occur in environmental toxins such as cigarette smoke. Getting plenty of antioxidants in your diet helps counteract the oxidation that occurs within your body when you are exposed to these contaminants. Adding a serving of dark chocolate to your day helps your body fight off damaged cells that contribute to cancer.
Fights Depression
Many people know the power that a piece of chocolate has on a poor mood. According to Dr. Patricia Fitzgerald, in a report for The Huffington Post website, dark chocolate contains tryptophan, which can help reduce feelings of depression. Tryptophan is a chemical in your brain that plays a role in relaxation and happiness. Chocolate also increases dopamine, a brain chemical associated with feeling good. However, eating chocolate should not replace any medications you are taking for depression.
Enhances Brain Activity
Chocolate has a blood thinning effect, which is why it can prevent heart disease. This positive effect spills over to cognition because the blood flow to your brain is enhanced. Again, choosing dark chocolate offers more benefits. Adding some dark chocolate to your diet could increase your brain's activity, but you should not rely on it as your sole means of brain support. Healthy fats that come from olive oil, avocado and salmon in conjunction with a moderate amount of dark chocolate can together support a healthy brain.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Heart-Health Benefits of Chocolate Unveiled
- MayoClinic.com; Can Chocolate Be Good for My Health?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.
- The Huffington Post; Seven Healthy Reasons to Enjoy Chocolate - Without the Guilt; Dr. Patricia Fitzgerald; August 2009
- AARP: Go Over to the Dark Side. Of Chocolate, That Is; Candy Sagon; August 2010
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