The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate Ep. 106 | Life at the Table

Feeling guilty for giving into your sweet tooth? We’ve all been there! Allow me to calm your conscience as we talk about the health benefits of dark chocolate. Yes, the health benefits of chocolate! The Rich History Chocolate is derived from the seeds of the cacao trees. And chocolate has a history that goes all the way back to early Mesoamerica.  It’s popularity skyrocketed when Europeans discovered the Americas and spread chocolate to the rest of the world.  Today, chocolate is tops as a favorite treat all across the globe.  Yes. Large scale consumption of chocolate in sweet candy bars and other junky, but yummy, treats is linked to weight gain and an unhealthy lifestyle.  However, eating pure chocolate, especially dark chocolate, has long been thought to have several health benefits and healing properties. The reason for this is pretty simple: The higher the percentage of cacao, the healthier that the chocolate will be. When choosing a dark chocolate select a bar that has a high cacao value.  The percentage of cacao is noted on the packaging and expressed as a percentage.  The higher the percentage, the more bitter and less sweet taste.   Raising the Bar: The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate One of the most commonly known benefits of eating chocolate is that it can make you feel happy.  It releases serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins into your body, putting you in a better mood. Dark chocolate consumption can also improve your heart function, as cacao promotes HDL cholesterol, also known as the good cholesterol. Your skin will glow, your insulin levels will rise, your inflammation will drop and your blood circulation will improve. It’s also thought to have anti-aging properties. And it helps with managing stress and blood pressure.  Best Way to Eat and Get the Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate Again, the best chocolate to eat is dark chocolate that has at least 70% cacao content.  Always choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate if you’re looking for the healthier option.  Also, check the packages for a selection that is low in sugar and fat. Always remember that too much of a good thing isn’t always a good thing: moderation and smart selections are key, my friends.  Craving some chocolate? Try this recipe for some delicious hot chocolate! The post The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate appeared first on Life At The Table.