Who knew dark chocolate was good for your health! 7 benefits

 

 

Dark chocolate is rich in nutrients that can have a positive effect on health.

1. High nutritional value

Dark chocolate is rich in soluble fiber and minerals.

Also, a 100g bar of dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70–85% contains dietary fiber, iron, magnesium,

It contains nutrients such as copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium. It is also good for heart health.

It also contains fatty acids composed of oleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid, etc.



2. Antioxidants

Dark chocolate is rich in organic compounds that act as antioxidants.

This includes polyphenols, flavanols, and catechins. According to research, dark chocolate's

When polyphenols are consumed with other foods such as almonds or cocoa, some forms

It is known to help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.

In another study, cocoa and dark chocolate contain more polyphenols than any other fruit,

It was reported that it contains more flavanols.



3. Improved blood flow and lowered blood pressure

The flavanoids in dark chocolate can stimulate endothelial cells, the inner walls of arteries, to produce nitric oxide (NO).

Nitric oxide (NO) relaxes arteries, lowering resistance to blood flow and reducing blood pressure.

However, according to research, these effects are generally mild, and further research is needed.



4. Improvement in HDL levels , lowering LDL levels

Consuming dark chocolate can improve several heart disease risk factors, such as high cholesterol.

According to a small study, when consuming dark chocolate supplemented with flavanol lycopene, total cholesterol,

It was found that LDL and triglyceride levels decreased significantly. Also, dark chocolate's

Flavanols may also reduce insulin resistance, a common risk factor for diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.



5. Reduced risk of heart disease

Consuming cocoa or dark chocolate rich in flavanols can lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

Several studies have revealed that dark chocolate exists three times a week. According to research, eating dark chocolate three times a week

It was found that consuming it lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease by 9%. Even if consumed more frequently, additional

It was confirmed that there were almost no benefits. In another study, 45g of chocolate per week

It was reported that consuming it lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease by 11%.



6. Skin protection
According to research, the flavanols in dark chocolate protect the skin from the sun and skin blood flow

It can improve and increase skin density and moisture. If you are planning a beach vacation

You might consider consuming additional dark chocolate a few weeks or months in advance.

However, you must consult with a medical professional, and chocolate cannot replace sunscreen.



7. Improvement of brain function
According to research, consuming chocolate high in flavanols [induces] brain blood flow in young adults

It is said that it can be improved. In addition, flavanols [help] the cognitive function of elderly people with mild cognitive impairment

It can also help maintain it and reduce the risk of progression to dementia, but

It was reported that more research is needed.


Source: Healthinnews (https://www.healthinnews.co.kr)