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Increases Heart Health
The antioxidants in dark chocolate have been shown to lower blood
pressure, reduce the risk of clotting and increase blood circulation
to the heart, thus lowering the risks of stroke, coronary heart
disease and death from heart disease.
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Balances the Immune System
Prevent the immune system from going into overdrive and reduce
oxidative stress, which is an imbalance caused by cells fighting
against free radicals and a common cause of many diseases.
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Combats Diabetes
Epicatechin protects cells, makes them stronger and supports the
processes that help the body to use insulin better, which might
prevent or combat diabetes.
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Improves Brain Function
Flavonols in dark chocolate have a positive impact on brain
function, including better reaction time, visual-spatial awareness
and stronger memory. Though research is ongoing, one reason for this
may be that flavonols increase blood flow to the brain.
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Boosts Athletic Performance
The epicatechin in dark chocolate increases the production of nitric
oxide in the blood, which supports circulation and reduces the
amount of oxygen an athlete uses while engaged in moderately intense
exercise. This allows the athlete to maintain workout intensity for
longer.
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Reduces Stress
People who ate dark chocolate reported that they felt less stressed,
and researchers confirmed that after eating dark chocolate, there
were reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol. This may be
related to dark chocolate’s effects on heart health, since stress is
a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
