A small dose of dark chocolate is just what the heart ordered
Posted: February 16, 2023 | By: Rocio Ramos
When given the choice of a healthy treat, dark chocolate is always high on the list. The benefits of dark chocolate date back to ancient civilizations including the Mayans who believed chocolate was a food of the Gods. It has also been used for its health benefits by ancient civilizations to support many areas of health. Now, we know dark chocolate to be rich in antioxidants and in moderation, dark chocolate can be just what you need to stay healthy.
Why do you need antioxidants?
Just like there are essential vitamins and minerals that perform necessary functions in our body, antioxidants also do the same. They help your body combat damage to cells caused by free radicals. A free radical is an unstable molecule that the body naturally produces, however, they can also be produced from exposure to toxins in your diet and environment. These toxins can be in the air you breath, products you put on your body, and can be from foods you consume. The damage to your cells caused by free radicals can increase your risk for heart disease, cancers, and other illness.
What do studies show?
One of the most popular selling points for dark chocolate lovers is that this sweet treat is also rich in antioxidants. It’s made from cocoa beans that are rich in antioxidants which help the body combat inflammation caused by free radicals. What research has found is that consuming dark chocolate may help reduce your risk of heart disease. The antioxidants in dark chocolate have been found to help prevent blood clots and help lower blood pressure that is caused by inflammation. Still, health care professionals advise to consume dark chocolate in moderation because it is still a high calorie food.
Qualified Health Claims
The benefits of antioxidant-rich dark chocolates are so important that the FDA has recently announced they will allow certain claims to be made on the benefits of dark chocolate. What the FDA has stated is that qualified health claims can be made for cocoa flavanols in high flavanol cocoa powder and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. While claims can be made, the FDA did conclude that there is limited scientific evidence.
There are many reasons we should be adding dark chocolate to our diets. Whether you love the sweet taste, or want to boost your health, try Youngevity’s Health Chocolates for a healthy antioxidant boost.
Posted in:
