If consumed in the right way, chocolate can be an excellent ally for your health.
Chocolate, long called the “food of the gods,” has a rich history and an important presence in global cuisine. However, when it comes to choosing the healthiest chocolate, science guides us to look beyond taste and consider the components that truly determine its benefits.
Produced from cocoa, chocolate, as explained by Encyclopedia Britannica, is a quick source of energy, rich in carbohydrates and contains stimulants such as caffeine and theobromine. However, excessive consumption, especially in processed forms, can lead to health problems, especially for those suffering from diseases such as diabetes.
A National Geographicin his article entitled “Is eating chocolate good for your health?“, highlights that the true benefits of chocolate are intrinsically linked to the bioactive compounds present in cocoa, such as flavonoids. These, in turn, have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties, providing a number of health benefits.
The big question then is: Which chocolate is best for your health? The answer, according to several scientific sources, consistently points in the direction of dark chocolate. This type of chocolate has a cocoa concentration that varies between 70% and 85%, as indicated by the United States National Library of Medicine.
Dark chocolate is praised for being a rich source of minerals essential for vascular health, such as magnesium, copper, potassium and calcium, as stated by the same medical source. These minerals play a fundamental role in reducing the risk of hypertension and atherosclerosis, thus contributing to the promotion of cardiovascular health.
Furthermore, dark chocolate, since it contains a higher percentage of cocoa than other varieties, is a choice that stands out for improving brain function. The flavonoids present in cocoa increase blood flow to the brain, positively impacting cognitive functions, memory and concentration, as reported in the article by National Geographic.
OR Dutch Journal of Medicine points out that the higher the cocoa content, the greater the benefits, as these options tend to have less fat and sugar. However, it is always advisable to carefully check product labels to ensure the authenticity of the nutritional information.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
