Dark chocolate outshines its white and milk counterparts in terms of nutrient content, making it the preferred choice. Interestingly, men seem to benefit more from incorporating dark chocolate into their diet compared to women.
You might have that one friend who, instead of indulging in the sweetness of white chocolate, opts for the rich flavors of dark chocolate. We might have playfully teased them for "going to the dark side," but in reality, it's a wise and healthy choice.
While many of us favor the sweetness and taste of white and milk chocolates, we often overlook the numerous health benefits that dark chocolates offer. Consuming a piece of dark chocolate every day can yield a plethora of advantages that we might not be fully aware of.
For instance, dark chocolate is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and other beneficial ingredients, particularly beneficial for men. A study conducted by the National Library Of Medicine in January 2015 revealed that individuals with type 2 diabetes who include dark chocolate in their diet experience lower blood pressure and hypertension compared to those who abstain from it.
Ingredients
Dark and white chocolate have nearly identical ingredients, with one crucial distinction—the quantity of cocoa solids. Milk or white chocolate typically contains less than 50% cocoa solids, while dark chocolate must have a cocoa solids level above 50%.
Dark chocolate is rich in essential minerals such as iron, phosphorus, copper, magnesium, and zinc, which play a vital role in supporting men's bodies. Magnesium present in dark chocolate aids in improving sleep quality; zinc contributes to boosting immunity; and phosphorus helps in maintaining healthy teeth and bones. These minerals make dark chocolate not only a delicious treat but also a potential source of health benefits, particularly beneficial for men's overall well-being.
7 Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Discover the delightful world of dark chocolate and its array of health benefits. From protecting your heart to boosting brain power, this delectable treat offers more than just a sweet indulgence.
Here are 7 health benefits of consuming dark chocolate:
Heart rate risk
Antioxidants in dark chocolate, called flavonoids, can decrease the risk of heart attacks as flavonoids improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure. These two are the prime factors responsible for getting a heart attack.
Concentration power
Ingredients in dark chocolate, especially flavonols, help dilate blood vessels, due to which more oxygen is supplied to the parts of the brain, resulting in more concentration and alertness in the brain. Gives a boost to brain power.
Good cholesterol level
One of the reasons for eating this chocolate is that it helps maintain good cholesterol. Polyphenols present in cocoa powder and flavonols in chocolate reduce the chances of heart disease by reducing bad cholesterol levels.
Skin protection
Skincare has become one of the most prioritized things now. Dark chocolate has been a great help in that process, as the flavonoids present in the chocolate also protect the skin from sun damage and improve hydration and blood flow.
Exercise snack
Dark chocolate can be a good pre-exercise snack, as the chocolate releases dopamine in the brain, which results in motivation, pleasure, and a learning attitude. Having a bite of it before a workout or exercise session early in the morning would help achieve the best outcomes.
Mood lifter
There is a reason why you feel good after eating dark chocolate: the polyphenol antioxidants present in the chocolate reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, which results in feelings of enjoyment and pleasure.
Sexual Health
Caffeine present in dark chocolates helps improve sexual health as the chocolate releases endorphins, the happy hormones in the body, which lower stress or fatigue and make sexual health better.
Conclusion
In conclusion, indulging in a piece of dark chocolate every day can prove to be a delightful and wise choice, especially for men. The rich flavors of dark chocolate are packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and minerals, offering a plethora of health benefits. From promoting heart health and improving brain function to lifting moods and supporting skin protection, this delectable treat goes beyond mere sweetness. With its potential to lower the risk of heart attacks, enhance concentration, and even contribute to better sexual health, dark chocolate proves to be a valuable addition to a balanced diet. However, moderation is key, as excessive consumption may lead to unwanted effects. So, embrace the goodness of dark chocolate, savor its pleasures in moderation, and let it be a part of your journey toward a healthier and happier life.
Footnote:
A study published by the National Library Of Medicine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4460349/
Written by: Aashita Singh
Edited by: Aniket Joshi