Description

There is no denying that all varieties of chocolate are sweet and delicious, but researchers have also determined that dark chocolate offers multiple benefits for the body. Milk chocolate contains 10 percent cocoa solids per bar, plain chocolate around 35 percent cocoa solids per bar, and dark chocolate 70 to 100 percent cocoa solids per bar. In addition, milk chocolate contains milk; plain chocolate contains minimal dairy; and dark chocolate contains no milk.

Eating dark chocolate just once or twice weekly is a healthy treat, but it is also calorific, and too much of something good can cause weight gain if those calories are not burnt off by exercise or a reduced calorie intake on other days. On the plus side, dark chocolate is naturally sweeter than milk or plain chocolate, so you will often end up eating fewer pieces.

1. Nourish the Brain

Dark chocolate supports blood flow to the heart, reducing the risk of stroke, while the increase in blood flow improves cognitive function. Dark chocolate contains the chemical compound phenylethylamine (PEA), the same chemical reaction that occurs in the brain when you fall in love. Feel-good chemicals called endorphins are released; therefore, regular consumption of dark chocolate can improve your feelings of happiness.

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