I'm a massive fan of dark chocolate. I have it every day, without exception. The best part is I don't even need to feel guilty, because dark chocolate actually has surprising health benefits.
Improved Heart Health
That's right. Dark chocolate contains something called flavanols. Flavanols have a positive effect on your heart health by lowering blood pressure. In addition to this, they also improve blood flow to the heart. Milk and white chocolate contain zero flavanols. That means it's time to start stocking up.
It's a Superfood
Dark chocolate has a massive antioxidant capacity. Other foods with antioxidant capacities on par with dark chocolate are acai, cranberry, blueberry, and pomegranate. The cocoa in dark chocolate also releases endorphins, which makes you happy.
Nutritious and Delicious
Dark chocolate is actually quite nutritious. If you are buying chocolate that has 70-85% cocoa, then the chocolate bar is loaded with fiber and minerals. A 100 gram bar will contain 11 grams of fiber.
Skin Saver
Dark chocolate may actually be improving your skin, too. The bioactive compounds found inside can protect your skin from sun damage by improving the blood flow to your skin. This makes your skin more hydrated and dense and less likely to burn. Put on your sunscreen and load up on some dark chocolate before your day in the sunshine.
Improved Brain Function
Consuming dark chocolate has also shown to improve blood flow to the brain. For elderly people with mental impairment, cocoa found in dark chocolate may actually improve cognitive functions. Score.
If those aren't enough for you, dark chocolate is also lower in calories and contains much less fat and sugar than milk and white chocolate, as well as most desserts out there. Try working a square or two into your daily diet.