Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

I’m a chocoholic. I admit it. I could eat chocolate all day long…thanks God I found a way to satisfy that craving with Shakeology–or else I’d be in big trouble! 

Chocolate DOES have health benefits…when consumed in moderation. Keep in mind this is DARK chocolate–NOT milk chocolate or white chocolate. The darker the chocolate the better.  If you’re the kind of person who can’t be left alone with a chocolate bar, then this may not be for you…but if you can take a piece and leave the rest…then read on =) 

Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

1. Chocolate lowers blood pressure. Cocoa contains plant phenols, which are known to lower blood pressure. 

2. Chocolate has antioxidants called flavanoids that can reduce risk factors for heart disease. 

3. Chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins that can improve your mood. 

4. Chocolate also contains the chemical serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant. 

5. Chocolate can protect your skin! The flavanoids in dark chocolate can absorb UV light,  protect and increase blood flow to the skin, and improve skin’s hydration and complexion. 

I want to stress that while dark chocolate DOES have some health benefits, it is also high in calories. So if you’re going to have some dark chocolate, be sure to log it into myfitnesspal.com and make sure it fits into your daily caloric budget.