Apart from satisfying your taste buds, research has shown that chocolate with a cocoa percentage of around 70% or more actually have some unbelievable health benefits.
Here are five scientifically proven health benefits of good chocolate.
- It reduces risk of heart failure
According to research, dark chocolate helps in the proper circulation of blood while preventing the white blood cells from sticking to the walls of the blood vessels. It also helps restore flexibility to the blood vessels therefore reducing the risk of heart failure.
- It improves the brain memory.
Chocolates are thought to reduce memory loss in older people, and ensure good memory in young adults. It has also been found that dark chocolate can be used to treat brain injuries like concussion. A University of Nottingham researcher found that drinking cocoa rich in flavanols, boosts blood flow to key parts of the brain for 2 to 3 hours, which could improve performance and alertness in the short term.
- It reduces risk of stroke
Research has also proven that chocolate consumers have lower risk of experiencing stroke than people who do not eat them.
- Chocolate contains iron
Dark chocolate contains about 67 percent of iron which means it can help an individual develop strong bones. It also contains other beneficial minerals like potassium, zinc and selenium.
- Chocolate protects the skin
Apparently, chocolate also protects the skin against sun damage. Why buy an expensive cream when you can enjoy a bar of chocolate?