While chocolate isn't typically considered the healthiest food, dark chocolate can actually be very beneficial for your body.
Experts say it contains many minerals and vitamins that can improve your physical and mental health, ADVICE.NEWS reports.
Let's find out more.
Dark chocolate with a relatively high cocoa content (70% or more) is a good source of minerals that are beneficial to the body.
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals.
Flavonoids in dark chocolate can improve blood flow, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of blood clots in the veins, thereby promoting cardiovascular health.
Chocolate stimulates the release of endorphins, which naturally improve mood, and also contains small amounts of caffeine and theobromine, which can have a mild stimulant effect.
Preliminary research suggests that flavonoids in dark chocolate may improve blood flow to the brain, thereby benefiting memory and attention.
The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and the intense flavor of dark chocolate can satisfy cravings and reduce the likelihood of indulging in less healthy treats.
Dark chocolate contains compounds that have been shown to positively impact stress levels.