The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate has recently been found to have some positive health benefits in a number of scientific research studies. Most consumers enjoy eating some chocolate, so the news about its health benefits is indeed good news.

Cacao

• Cacao, an ingredient in chocolate, contains an antibacterial ingredient that helps to fight tooth decay. The smell of chocolate is also believed to relax a person by affecting brain waves.

Oleic Acid

• The cocoa butter in chocolate contains oleic acid, an ingredients that helps to lower blood cholesterol.

Flavonoids

• Dark chocolate contains flavonoids which act like antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals. The flavonoids in chocolate may keep blood vessels more elastic, as well.

Blood Pressure

• Dark chocolate is good for your heart and is believed to lower blood pressure.

Considerations

• Chocolate is thought to trigger migraine headaches in some people. Check with your doctor if you get frequent migraines.