Chocolate And Your Health

Chocolate does have a bad reputation for being a danger to your waistline and your oral health, however in moderation and depending on the chocolate, it can also have some health benefits.

Recent studies from around the world have given us some insight on why its okay to snack on the sweet treat from time to time: One Australian study shared that because of chocolates antioxidants, eating small amounts can actually help to reduce the effects of raised blood pressure in overweight individuals when they exercise.

A Swedish study claimed that women who ate one to two servings of dark chocolate a week reduced their risk of heart failure compared to those who did not, by more than a third! Dark or bitterer tasting chocolates can actually help curb that craving for something sweet and salty, by making you feel more full and satisfied than when going for the lighter, milk chocolate treats. And feeling more full means that in theory you would consume a smaller portion and less quantity overall.

Researchers at UC San Diego found that consuming chocolate, while easing emotional distress can also help with relaxation and stress management. Eating dark chocolate at work isn’t just a satisfying afternoon snack, but it can actually help boost your mood, alertness and performance. Now, while all of these benefits sound like the perfect excuse to get snacking on some chocolate, its important to still remember to eat in moderation and follow each treat with some water or brushing to help rinse excess sugar off your teeth. *Studies all featured in Women’s Health magazine