A Harvard study revealed results that dark chocolate lovers everywhere can celebrate— it may be beneficial for your health.
The study showed that eating a small square of dark chocolate each day could help lower your blood pressure and provide other heart-healthy benefits. However, with more than 400 chemicals found in a cocoa bean, scientists continue to dissect the benefits of dark chocolate. “Whether dark chocolate positively impacts your health depends on how much you consume,” says Nora DiLaura, MS, RD, CDE, Dietitian on staff at Crittenton. “If you eat too much, it can cause weight gain and cancel out the health benefits.” Because cocoa is derived from a plant, like blueberries and red wine, the flavonoids found in cocoa contain antioxidants that shield the body from free radicals. Studies also suggest that moderate amounts of dark chocolate may help lower cholesterol levels.
Satisfy Your Craving
When you need a chocolate fix, make sure to choose dark chocolate containing low amounts of sugar and 70 percent cocoa or more. “If you’re simply eating dark chocolate to receive the benefit of flavonoids, you can eat fruits and vegetables that are loaded with them,” DiLaura says. “But if you enjoy indulging in dark chocolate, you can reap the benefits by occasionally eating a half ounce or less.”
To learn more about Diabetes Education and Nutrition Counseling at Crittenton Hospital Medical Center, visit www.crittenton.com/community-health-and-education/diabetes-education or call (248) 652-5660.