FOCUS ON… The benefits of chocolate
Fallen off the diet wagon? Don’t despair – a little bit of choc can actually be good for you!
1 Improves heart health
‘Some studies have shown that flavonoids – active ingredients in chocolate – support heart health, as they strengthen artery walls, improve blood flow and even lower blood pressure,’ says Alix Woods, nutritionist at Quest Nutra Pharma.
‘Magnesium, calcium, zinc, B vitamins and healthy essential fats from the cacao bean may also help to lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, lower LDL cholesterol and minimise plaque formation within artery walls.’
2 Enhances memory
Eating dark chocolate can give your brain a short-term boost, increasing your alertness for two to three hours, says a University of Nottingham study.
‘The high levels of antioxidants could play a role in counteracting cognitive decline and the improvement in memory, according to this research,’ says nutritional therapist Lisa Hutson.
3 Stabilises blood sugar Cacao-rich chocolate could help stabilise blood sugar and reduce overall fats, such as cholesterol in the blood.
‘It’s thanks to the flavonoids combining with the minerals magnesium and chromium,’ says Alix.
4 Helps with weight loss ‘Some studies suggest that including dark chocolate in your diet may help you to lose weight – particularly around the middle,’ says Lisa.
It’s far more filling than its milk counterpart, reducing cravings for sweet, salty and fatty foods. In fact, just smelling dark chocolate reduces the appetite response.
‘It appears the flavonoid content of dark chocolate reduces lipogenesis (the creation of new fat cells) and encourages the body to increase levels of the protein messenger adiponectin, linked to reduced insulin resistance,’ adds Lisa.
5 Boosts mood
The amino acids leucine and lysine, as well as the vitamins, enzymes and alkaloids in chocolate, can work together to enhance mental and physical health.
‘All these ingredients stimulate the emotional areas of the brain and enhance serotonin levels, leading to feelings of satisfaction and contentment,’ says Alix.
6 Stops the sniffles Unprocessed cacao, or ‘raw’ chocolate, can help ease cold symptoms, and it’s packed with antioxidants.
‘They protect you from anti-nutrients, such as toxins and free radicals, which are caused by excessive exposure to the sun and pollution,’ says Alix.