Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Good news for the chocolate lovers, that dark chocolate that you crave is actually good for you. Dark chocolate can boost your immune system and promote healthy cardiovascular health.

Chocolate, made from the cocoa bean plant, has all the nutrients found in dark vegetables. Not only does it taste good, it stimulates endorphin production in the body, which gives a feeling of pleasure. Dark chocolate also contains serotonin, that acts as a mild anti-depressant. It has eight times more antioxidants than strawberries, which is high on the list of natural fruits high in antioxidants. The flavonoids in dark chocolate produces nitric oxide in the body that plays an important role in balancing the blood pressure and certain hormones in the body, as well as reduces LDL (bad) cholesterol up to ten percent. Chocolate is a high fat food, so you must use reason as to the amount you eat. It contains three types of fat, in which only one third is saturated fat that is bad for you. It is the dark chocolate that has the greatest benefits. Look for dark chocolate with nuts or other flavorings. Skip the caramel, nougat or other fillings with too much sugar and fat. These additives void the benefits of chocolate. Avoid washing it down with milk, this also will void the benefits of good dark chocolate.

Studies have shown that three and one half ounces of dark chocolate per day produces many benefits. So take time to savor the appeal, the smell, and the taste of each piece of that dark chocolate as it melts in your mouth.