Shaklee is pleased to bring you the best nutrition articles to help you lead a healthier life, and this week, with permission from the Harvard School of Public Health, we bring you the benefits of eating dark chocolate.
Chocolate lovers rejoice! There are numerous benefits of eating dark chocolate in moderation (stick to 1-2 squares a day!) Dark chocolate (containing 70% or higher cocoa) is healthier than white chocolate or milk chocolate and is packed with antioxidants. It contains various essential nutrients which help you to stay healthy and looking your best. It may also provide heart-protective benefits.
Choosing dark chocolate and eating modest quantities may offer a number of great health benefits.
Dark chocolate is rich in:
- Iron
- Copper
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Phosphorus
- Flavanols
Choose 70% dark chocolate or higher to obtain the most flavanols. Flavanols have been shown to support the production of nitric oxide (NO) in the endothelium(the inner cell lining of blood vessels), which helps to relax the blood vessels and improve blood flow, thereby lowering blood pressure. Though keep in mind that the higher the percentage of cocoa solids, the greater the bitter flavor. To enjoy, try taking a small piece and allowing it to melt slowly in your mouth. This technique may offer a different, more pleasurable experience than quickly chewing and swallowing the chocolate.
Read the entire article here at the Harvard School of Public Health blog.
