Fibre: Dark chocolate contains dietary fibre which is beneficial for digestion and can provide a feeling of fullness. On this note, a controlled double-blind study fed high flavanol chocolate (HFC) to one group and low flavanol chocolate (LFC) to another for 30 days. Surprisingly, the UV resistance of the HFC group more than doubled while the LFC group remained unchanged ( 29). Studies have shown that MED can increase and even double after consuming high-flavanol dark chocolate or cocoa for 12 weeks ( 16). The result is that your skin has better protection from the sun. A review of studies revealed that eating chocolate 3 times per week lowered the risk of cardiovascular disease by 9% . Eating chocolate more often showed little additional benefit ( 14).

Cocoa contains compounds called flavanols which are a type of polyphenol. Polyphenols are naturally produced by plants and so are found in plant foods such as fruit, vegetables, tea, coffee, wine, grains and chocolate. According to a study published in Clinical Nutrition, people who ate dark chocolate more than five times a week reduced their risk of heart disease by 57%. Vitamin A: Primarily from the milk content in the chocolate, Vitamin A plays an essential role in vision, growth, cell division, reproduction, and immunity. Leyva-Soto, A., et al. (2018). Daily consumption of chocolate rich in flavonoids decreases cellular genotoxicity and improves biochemical parameters of lipid and glucose metabolism.

FOOD & DRINK

While researchers agree dark chocolate possesses many health benefits, further study is needed to determine if there is a cause-and-effect relationship between chocolate consumption and diabetes risk. With decades of experience in the chocolate industry, I’ve come to appreciate the depth and complexity of this beloved treat. A further randomized and controlled double-blind study of sixty individuals had participants consume 25 grams of dark chocolate per day for eight weeks. Results showed a significant decrease in blood pressure ( 26). The health benefits of dark chocolate come primarily from the flavanols present in the cacao solids.

Over time, a number of studies have shown that consuming flavanol-rich cocoa or chocolate can lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health ( 13). Further, those who reported the highest intake of dark chocolate had a 57% lower risk than those who consumed no chocolate. People should, therefore, try to limit their consumption of dark chocolate to avoid consuming too many calories, fats, and sugars.It can be chopped, ground, shaved or melted and is a common ingredient in ganache, glazes, mousses and puddings. Vitamin E: Present in modest amounts, this vitamin acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. It also plays a role in maintaining good skin health. According to researchers from Tel Aviv University, morning is the best time to enjoy sweet treats, chocolate included. Kawakami et al: Effect of cacao polyphenol-rich chocolate on postprandial glycemia, insulin, and incretin secretion in healthy participants.

This equates to around six small pieces or two large squares, depending on the size of the chocolate bar.However, the dose of dark chocolate (and potentially the duration of intake) is likely important in this regard.

A randomized clinical trial demonstrated that 30 grams of dark chocolate per day over 15 days led to decreased blood pressure ( 25).Humans have been consuming chocolate since the Mayans first drank it around 1500 B.C. Chocolate is still a popular treat today, and now we have even more reasons to crave it, especially dark chocolate. They can help lower your LDL cholesterol, reduce the risk of blood clots and increase blood flow through the arteries and heart. 6 The University of Michigan Health System recommends that people should eat 1 ounce of dark chocolate every day. Kim et al: Cacao polyphenols potentiate anti-platelet effect of endothelial cells and ameliorate hypercoagulatory states associated with hypercholesterolemia. According to Clemson University, one ounce of dark chocolate contains 150 calories; the majority of which are sugar and fat.