Does seeing aisles generously stocked with bedecked chocolate boxes have your heart racing with guilty pleasure? Lucky for all you chocolate aficionados, recent research indicates that you do not necessarily have to feel guilty anymore. With many healthy benefits accompanying the consumption of the milky rich product, researchers claim that a bit of chocolate everyday will keep your heart doctor away.
Here are the top three reasons for why you shouldn’t feel guilty about eating chocolate in moderation:
1. Chocolate could be your key to anti-aging.
Antioxidants have taken the lead role in many health-related discussions because of their health benefits such as the prevention of cell damage. Flavonoid, a component of chocolate, is a type antioxidant. They protect our cells from harm which directly helps to slow the aging process of our bodies.
2. Chocolate is a supplier of happiness.
That happiness that you feel after eating chocolate is not imaginary. Rather it is a side-effect of the release of endorphins triggered by the chocolate.
3. It is good for your heart (not just figuratively).
A few ounces of dark chocolate consumption every day can actually help lower you cholesterol, blood pressure and help unclog your arteries. Furthermore, the same flavonoids mentioned above master the process of making sure that your blood flows smoothly through your arteries, strengthening the functioning of your cardiovascular system.
However, like the saying goes, “too much of anything is a bad thing.” It is important to understand that chocolate showcases its benefits when consumed limitedly. With that being said, do not shy away from the Valentine’s Day aisle the next time you go out on a grocery errand. Embrace the chocolate lover in you and let those health benefits start taking root. Who knew that eating “sinfully delicious” chocolate could be so healthy?
Pech, Julie. The Chocolate Therapist: a User's Guide to the Extraordinary Health Benefits of Chocolate. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, 2010. Print.
Comments
Now I have perfectly legit excuses to eat chocolate! Thanks for a great article! :)
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!