Where are my chocolate lovers? I’m raising my hand right there with you! Is chocolate one of your favorite foods? If you answered yes, then you’ll be thrilled to know that chocolate, specifically dark chocolate, has actual health benefits! YES!! A good excuse to eat this swoon-worthy treat.
Just remember to look for chocolate, cocoa or cacao that contains at least 70% or more cocoa content. That’s where the health benefits come into play. Avoid milk chocolate, which is full of fat, sugar and additives which voids out any beneficial properties. Read labels and choose wisely.
Here are a few healthy Looking for some ways to incorporate dark chocolate with other healthy ingredients? Try one of these recipes!
This simple chocolate bark is loaded with healthy seeds, nuts and dried fruit.
Learn how to make these healthy homemade peanut butter cups from scratch! Only 38 calories! They have a dark chocolate coating and a dark chocolate peanut butter filling—but no butter, oil, heavy cream or added sugar!
Healthy Healthy Chocolate Turtles {easy recipe!} • Fit Mitten Kitchen
These paleo friendly and vegan chocolate turtles are such a fun and cute treat to make!
These chocolate covered banana bites are like little ice cream bites. The perfect healthy dessert or midnight snack for when the sweet tooth hits.
So How Does Dark Chocolate Have Health Benefit Properties?
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants which protect your cells against free radicals. Free radicals in your body contribute to inflammation and chronic disease.
Dark chocolate also contains flavanols. Flavanol is a type of flavonoid that aids in heart health. Flavanol can help reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow.
And the benefits keep going. Studies have shown that dark chocolate can reduce LDL cholesterol. Research has also shown that dark chocolate may also improve cognitive function.
In addition, one more awesome reason to consume dark chocolate is that it’s amazing for your skin. What you eat is reflected in your skin. Flavonol properties have been shown to protect against damage done by ultraviolet light, reduce skin roughness and help with hydration.
Above all, let’s not forget one of the most important properties – the minerals. Dark chocolate contains health-boosting amounts of iron, magnesium, manganese and copper.
In conclusion, with all these amazing benefits, it’s no wonder that dark chocolate is considered a superfood! Just remember though, that chocolate is not a low-calorie or low-fat food. Consume it in moderation and enjoy the rich taste.
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