Mood and Immune System
Dark chocolate is actually a prebiotic, which means it encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Dark chocolate can increase gut microbial diversity, which is connected with health benefits. The prebiotic improves glucose control and decreases the risk of getting diabetes. These changes in microbial diversity can also improve the intestinal barrier of the gut. Which is important for stopping toxins from entering a person’s bloodstream and triggering widespread inflammation.
Furthermore, polyphenols in dark chocolate can reduce cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that may contribute to symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, gut microbes are important in transforming the polyphenols into an active form. This allows these compounds to exert their beneficial effects. The transformation of these polyphenols has positive benefits on the gut bacteria. The polyphenols increase levels of Bacteroidetes. Which are gut microbes that provide protection against pathogens, give nutrients to other gut microbes, and positively impact our mood.
Reduce Stress and Boost Athletic Performance
Individuals who have eaten dark chocolate reported that they feel less stressed. Researchers confirmed that after eating dark chocolate there were reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It might be related to dark chocolate’s effect on heart health. That is because stress is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Flavonols prevent the immune system from going into overdrive, and they reduce oxidative stress. Which is an imbalance that is caused by cells fighting against free radicals, and is a common cause of multiple diseases.
Flavonols that are in dark chocolate have a good impact on brain function. This includes better reaction time, visual-spatial awareness and a better memory. Although research is ongoing, one reason for that might be that flavanols increases blood flow to the brain.
Improves the Brain Function and Increases Heart Health and Combats Diabetes
In addition to flavonols, epicatechin in dark chocolate increases the production of nitric oxide in the blood. Which supports circulation and reduces the amount of oxygen an individual uses during an intense exercise. This allows the individual to maintain workout intensity for a much longer time.
Furthermore, epicatechin protects cells, making them stronger while supporting the process that helps the body use insulin better. Which can possibly prevent or combat diabetes.
The antioxidants that are in dark chocolate have been shown to increase blood pressure circulation to the heart. These antioxidants can reduce the risk of clotting and can lower blood pressure. Which lowers the risk of someone having a stroke, coronary heart disease, and death from cardiovascular issues.
Hair Growth and Weight Loss
Dark chocolate has several nutrients that can be beneficial to hair. For example, it has fatty acids that are good for moisturizing and nourishing the hair. Additionally, it also makes a persons curls softer, restores shine and health to hair. Furthermore, dark chocolate contains iron. This along with antioxidants and stress reduction properties can possibly contribute to hair health.
Cocoa powder is a natural remedy for hair because it has a lot of sulfur. Which is a crucial mineral for hair health, it also adds shine and softness it. Putting cocoa powder into the daily routine can contribute to a luscious and glossy mane. Studies show that dark chocolate might reduce cravings and promote the feelings of fullness, which may help support weight loss.
Written By Markita Thomas
Source :
Healthline: Can Dark Chocolate Help You Lose Weight?
Core Performeance: Benefits of Dark Chocolate For Your Gut
Hopkins Medicine: Benefits of Having a Healthy Relationship with Chocolate
Theradome: 5 Ways Chocolate Can Help With Hair Loss
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of Judy van der Velden Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of russellstreet Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
