Benefits of Dark Chocolate

The benefits of dark chocolate have been uncovered in several recent scientific studies. These benefits are due to the flavonoids found in cocoa.

Flavonoids are plant nutrients that when ingested serve as antioxidants in food with many benefits. They have supporting roles in disease prevention and also are important in the maintenance of healthy bodies by strengthening capillaries and other connective tissue.

The benefits of dark chocolate have been known for centuries. Historical documents from Europe refer to the medicinal value of chocolate especially in treating angina and heart pain. Scientists have now demonstrated that it is the flavonoids that have provided these benefits.

Flavonoids function in protecting plants from microbes and insects. When we eat these antioxidants in food they trigger the production of natural enzymes that protect us from disease just as they do for the plants that contain them.

Fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and red beans contain high amounts of flavonoids. Red and yellow fruits and vegetables and some nuts also contain flavonoids. Green tea is also rich in flavonoids.

We now know that cocoa is one of the richest flavonoid-containing foods available.

Dark chocolate and other flavonoid-rich foods provide benefits that can be obtained by eating small amounts of the nutrient. A well-balanced diet containing adequate fruits, vegetables, nuts and even dark chocolate will yield many health benefits.

The benefits of dark chocolate:

reduces risk of certain cancers such as ovarian cancer

lowers blood pressure

improves insulin resistance

reduces risk of stroke and heart attack (this is because of the improved healthy blood flow which reduces the blood�fs ability to clot)

fights atherosclerosis (flavonoids play a role in protecting circulating lipids from oxidation which is part of the process that creates the plaque that clogs arteries)

reduces risk of chronic respiratory problems- especially cough with phlegm

protects from UV light that may reduce the risk of skin cancer

decreases inflammation and pain associated with arthritis

the smell of chocolate may increase theta brain waves, resulting in relaxation.

Before you stock up on chocolate there are some important facts to keep in mind:

√ Dark chocolate is best. Stay away from white or milk chocolate.

√ European chocolate is higher in flavonoids. Gourmet French Chocolate. Chocolate, as beautiful as it tastes, from RICHART. Buy online.

√ Monitor your fat and caloric intake in chocolate; you only need a small amount.

√ Do not replace healthy foods with chocolate. Let dark chocolate replace your unhealthy sweets.

The role flavonoid-rich foods plays in preventing disease and maintaining health is being heavily researched by scientists. We will update this page as new research becomes available. To learn more click on one of the following topics:

RICHART Chocolates "Little Gourmet Ballotin". Designed by children. Portion of sales to charity. The gift that keeps on giving.

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