
We all can't get enough of chocolates. In fact, it is the most popular sweet treat in the world based on consumption and preference.
But did you know that there's more to chocolate than its delicious taste? Yes, it also carries certain health benefits that are often not mentioned.
There are different kinds of chocolate, from dark to milk to white, but between all of them, dark chocolate takes the cake when it comes to its nutritional value.
So without further ado, we present some of the reasons why you should be consuming dark chocolate more than any kind of chocolate.
It can calm you down
Sweet treats can make us feel hyper and over energized because of high sugar content. On the contrary, dark chocolate contains natural ingredients that are calming and even relaxing. A study in Finland even stated that pregnant women felt calmer after eating even just a small portion of chocolate. So the next time you're craving for something sweet but don't fancy the sugar rush, grab some dark chocolate instead to keep you even keel.
It can help you lose weight
This one might sound confusing at first but dark chocolate contains the antioxidant catechins, which can increase metabolism rate. Another factor is that dark chocolate can trick your body into thinking that it's full. You will then end up eating less and turning down snacks more.
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Lowers blood pressure
According to Iman Suguitan, co-founder of the artisan chocolate brand Co Chocolat, dark chocolate is rich in polyphenols. This particular ingredient increases bioactive nitric oxide that can help lower blood pressure.
Good source of iron
“Cacao [the main ingredient used in making chocolate] is the highest source of plant-based iron,” says Iman.
“So if you're looking at increasing your iron intake and you want a plant-based source, then cacao or dark chocolate can help you achieve that.”
That feel-good feeling
Chocolates in general can stimulate dopamine, which is the feel-good chemical in our brain. This is the reason why we naturally feel happy in an instant after taking a bite of chocolate.
So there you have it, five surprising upsides of eating dark chocolate. However, always make sure to eat in moderation to fully enjoy its health benefits.
And for more lifestyle content, head to GMA's Lifestyle page.