Dark chocolate isn’t just any sweet treat. According to research, it’s loaded with nutrients that can positively impact your health (when consumed in moderation).
Combats free radicals
When pit against free radicals – which can cause damage to parts of the cell such as DNA and membranes – to see how well certain foods would respond, cocoa and dark chocolate were found to have a high ORAC level (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity). In other words, they’re loaded with antioxidants like polyphenols, flavanols, and catechins, among others, which can combat free radical damage, also called “oxidative damage.”
Lowers blood pressure
Countless dietary studies indicate that regular consumption of foods rich in cocoa reduce blood pressure as well as improve blood flow in the arteries. This is due to the treats extraordinary concentration of flavonoids. This diverse group of plant compounds found in many fruits and veggies, have been linked to a host of health benefits including cancer, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular disease prevention; as well as anti-inflammatory and immune system boosting properties.