Who doesn’t like chocolate? Dark chocolate is a very healthy food in “modest” amounts. It’s the phenols and antioxidants in dark chocolate that make this delectable treat so noteworthy.
Polyphenols are compounds found in cocoa, cacao and other foods that may help improve blood vessel function and correct many cardiovascular complications.
Antioxidants are chemicals (naturally occurring and man-made) that gobble up those damaging free radicals wreaking havoc in our bodies; they help prevent and/or slow cell damage.
(Dark) chocolate also helps increase HDL (good cholesterol), lower LDL (the bad cholesterol), lower blood pressure, and aids in preventing heart disease and cancer.
Chocolate is nutritious in its own right. It is considered a (plant) food containing phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats…and of course calories too(for energy)! In fact, 4 ounces of dark chocolate provides 60% of the RDA for magnesium – a much needed, but hard to store mineral.
So, Bon Appetit!
Further Reading
Journal of the American Heart Association – Dark Chocolate Acutely Improves Walking Autonomy in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease
Authority Nutrition – 7 Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
WebMD – Dark Chocolate is Healthy Chocolate
