Chocolates are often considered to be part of junk food. Due to the high sugar and fat content, chocolate is associated with health conditions such as diabetes, heart diseases, and hypertension. Moreover, dermatologists often ask their acne prone patients to reduce chocolate intake as it can aggravate acne. In order to gain correct information though, it is always a good idea to visit the best nutritionist in Lahore or your area.
However, chocolates also possess many health benefits. Some of these are listed below.
- Lowering cholesterol
Studies have found that chocolate contains certain elements that can result in lowering cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Preventing cognitive decline
Research shows that drinking two cups of hot chocolate a day can keep the brain healthy as well as reduce memory decline among older people. Moreover, it can help increase the flow of blood to every part of the body, especially the brain. It is also suggested that consuming chocolate at least once a week can improve cognitive function.
- Reducing the risk of heart diseases
Some studies suggest that eating chocolates can help improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart diseases.
- Reducing chances of stroke
Research has also shown that regular consumers of chocolate are less likely to experience stroke and other heart diseases.
- Improving fetal growth and development
Fetal growth and development are believed to be improved as a result of daily consumption of small amounts of chocolate (about 30 grams) every day by women during pregnancy.
- Improving athletic performance
Dark chocolate is believed to boost oxygen availability during fitness training.
- Avoiding sunburn
Chocolates with high flavanol content can help people withstand higher amounts of UV radiations without causing burning of the skin.
- Functioning as a mood lifter
Chocolates tend to function as mood enhancers. Eating chocolates can cheer people up and make them feel better.
- Helping people with Alzheimer’s
Studies have found that an extract in cocoa called lavado helps improve the brain functioning of patients of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Providing nutrition
Chocolates with a high content of cocoa contain many beneficial nutrients including copper, manganese, iron, zinc, potassium, selenium, as well as fiber.
- Lowering blood pressure
The presence of Nitric Oxide in dark chocolate can also help relax arteries and therefore, lowering blood pressure.
- Increasing endorphin levels
Flavanols found in chocolates help in the production of endorphins in the body. Endorphins can help alleviate depression, reduce anxiety and stress, and relieve pain, among other benefits.
- Reducing the risk of cancer
Cocoa flavanols in dark chocolate have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These are vital in keeping the actions of free radicals under control. As free radicals aid the metastasis of cancer in cells, keeping them in check reduces changes of cancer.
- Lowering the Body Mass Index
People who consume chocolate are believed to have a lower Body Mass Index (BMI).
- Reducing fatigue
Sufferers of chronic fatigue disorder have shown improvements in their condition with the consumption of chocolate.
Chocolates may actually not be as bad for health as they are believed to be. However, too much of anything can be harmful. When it comes to health matters, asking for professional advice from the best nutritionist in Karachi or your city is always a good idea.