Dark chocolate has also been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, which lowers your risk of developing diabetes. It’s also a great source of minerals such as iron, zinc, copper, and phosphorus. If you’re a chocolate fan, you’ll be interested to learn about the health benefits of dark chocolate. It contains powerful antioxidants, like epicatechin, which fight inflammation and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
1. Boosts immunity
Dark chocolate is a powerful antioxidant powerhouse that protects your immune system and prevents disease. Antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable oxygen molecules that cause inflammation, and other health problems. Specifically, cacao has been shown to boost the function of your white blood cells and lymphocytes. These are your body’s first line of defense against infection.
2. Decreases risk of stroke
According to a new study, if you love chocolate, you’ll be happy to know that a moderate amount every week can decrease your risk of stroke. Researchers in Sweden found that men who ate a reasonable amount of chocolate over ten years were 17% less likely to have a stroke than their counterparts who did not consume chocolate.
The reason dark chocolate may reduce your stroke risk is that flavonoids in it slow down the clumping of blood platelets. This can help prevent clots from forming in your arteries and blood vessels, lowering your blood pressure and improving your heart health.
3. Decreases risk of heart disease
Dark chocolate contains compounds that can lower your blood pressure and increase your HDL cholesterol, which is good for your heart. It also can help prevent plaques from forming in your arteries. A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who ate chocolate more than once a week had a lower risk of coronary artery disease.
But don’t think you can eat lots of it without worrying about your health. That’s because some dark chocolate bars contain heavy metals. Consumer Reports tested dozens of popular brands and found some are high in lead or cadmium.
4. Decreases risk of diabetes
While it is true that a small amount of dark chocolate can be beneficial to health, it must be consumed in moderation. It should be a treat, not an alternative to a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
The antioxidants found in chocolate can improve insulin sensitivity, which reduces the risk of diabetes and disease. This is especially beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body doesn’t properly respond to insulin.
5. Decreases risk of Alzheimer’s disease
Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that improve brain blood flow. These nutrients are also found in grapes, tea, red wine, and apples and have been linked to a lower risk of dementia.
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Researchers have found that the antioxidant epicatechin in dark chocolate decreases oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. These two conditions are believed to be responsible for memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
This study is small, and more research is needed to confirm the findings. However, it could mean those with dementia can benefit from a daily dose of cocoa flavanols.
6. Decreases risk of cancer
The antioxidants in dark chocolate, called flavonoids, may help reduce cancer risk. These compounds can also fight oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. The best way to reap these benefits is to choose a high-quality dark chocolate bar with at least 70% cocoa solids.
While dark chocolate has many health benefits, it’s important to remember that eating too much of it can lead to various problems, including weight gain and iron deficiency. Some brands of dark chocolate contain cadmium and lead, which can lead to health problems like heart disease and autoimmune disorders.
7. Decreases risk of dementia
A new study shows that dark chocolate can decrease the risk of dementia and disease. It is high in flavonoids, which increase blood flow to the brain and improve cognitive function. In addition, chocolate is a source of caffeine and theobromine, both known to boost brain function in low doses. They also lower stress levels.