You may think you needed a good excuse to enjoy a piece of dark chocolate, well I’m going to give you plenty of great ones.
We are talking about high quality dark chocolate – not the milk chocolate that is so easy to love and get addicted to. Good quality dark chocolate will have 70% or more cacaos, read the ingredients.
Benefits for your mind, body and soul:
1) Antioxidant protection.
Antioxidants are nutrients that stop or slow damage to your cells by slowing or stopping the oxidation process and protecting your cells from free radical damage. Usually found in plant based foods, dark chocolate with 70% or more cacao had more antioxidant protection than fruits.
2) Improved brain health
Reaching for a piece of dark chocolate after a long stressful day will help you get better focuses. Cacao was found to improve cognitive function, improve mood, reduce stress, decrease brain inflammation and improve memory.
3) Immune boosting
One study suggested after eating cacao there was in increase in T-cells – the immune markers in the blood. This suggests that dark chocolate directly boosts your immune system and boosting good gut bacteria.
4) Improved insulin sensitivity.
Research is showing that cacao may reduce insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance, thus reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
5) Nature’s Aphrodisiac
Known as the “Queen of Natural Aphrodisiacs,” It contains anadaminde which is a feel good chemical and PEA (the chemical that spikes during orgasm through the release of dopamine in the pleasure centers. It is also been found to relax blood vessels (vasodilatation) though nitric oxide level elevation
How to enjoy Cacao:
You can add raw cacao nibs straight from the cacao bean in a smoothie, dessert or even trail mix. Raw cacao powder can be a great substitute for hot chocolate mix with a bit of raw honey or coconut sugar.
In short, enjoy dark chocolate as a great healthful food, but as always – in moderation
Yours in Health
Dr. Jack Beitz, DC
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