ElmaWhen choosing premium chocolate, it is advisable to look at the ingredients used. Contrary to what many people believe, quality street chocolates are made of fewer ingredients. For instance, some use only cane sugar and organic cocoa. However, the cacao used can be sourced from Ghana, Madagascar, Brazil, Papua New Guinea, and other areas. This means you can get different varieties of chocolates. Like any other food, you are required to eat chocolates in moderation. The following are some of the benefits attributed to eating street chocolate.
It Is Nutritious
It is advisable to go for quality dark chocolate that has high cocoa content. Experts recommend that it should have 75% or more cocoa content. This is because cocoa is loaded with various nutrients, such as magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and soluble fiber. Additionally, it has a moderate amount of sugar, caffeine, and good fat.
Rich in Antioxidants
Various foods, such as acai berries and blueberries are popular because they contain antioxidants. What you might not know is that cocoa has more antioxidants as compared to these fruits. Therefore, consuming chocolate can help you improve your overall health and keep a doctor away.
Lower Blood Pressure
The truth is that life is quite stressful. This is because not each day is a holiday. You have many problems to deal with. For instance, it can contain bioactive compounds that improve your overall blood flow. Therefore, when you consume chocolate, you can lower your blood pressure.
Lower Cholesterol
When you consume chocolate, you help reduce LDL in the body. This is also called bad cholesterol. Studies have shown that when you eat chocolate, you help reduce LDL and increase the level of good cholesterol.
Prevents Heart Disease
When people consume dark chocolate, they help lower the risk of suffering from heart disease. This is because it helps guard against the oxidation of bad cholesterol. As a result, a minimal amount of cholesterol gets into the arteries and lowers your risk of heart disease.
Boosts Cognitive Function
You are probably wondering how chocolate can be beneficial to your brain. Ideally, chocolate contains flavanol that boosts blood circulation to the brain. Also, if it contains stimulants, such as theobromine and caffeine. However, the cognitive function you gain is for the short term.
Improve Skin Health
Some studies have proven that flavanols contained in chocolate help boost blood flow. Thus, your skin gets adequate blood and it is protected from harsh elements, such as UV light. If you like spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, it is advisable to consume chocolate.
Conclusion
With the above benefits of consuming street chocolate, you have enough reasons to satisfy your cravings for chocolate. Although you will get all these benefits, it is advisable to consume them in moderation. Also, you should pay attention to the quality of the chocolate you purchase. Always go for good chocolate that has a clean, sharp, crisp snap when you break it. Avoid chocolates that contain a lot of sugar and milk as they can be harmful to your health.