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One of my most favorite foods is chocolate! Milk chocolate used to be my go to dessert but after discovering the amazing benefits of dark chocolate, I have found a whole new passion. I enjoy strawberries, oranges and bananas dipped in dark chocolate. I often choose chocolate covered almonds or a square of 65-75% dark chocolate after dinner at night to satisfy my sweet tooth. For a very special treat, these Triple Chocolate Paleo Brownies  are fully loaded with dark and semi-sweet chocolate.  In the meantime, let’s look at some of the magical benefits of chocolate!

First, where does chocolate come from? The cocoa bean, also known as the cacao bean, are bean-like seeds that come from the cocoa tree. These seeds are found in pods that grow on the bark of the trees found mainly in West Africa. The cocoa bean is a powerful super food that has been treasured by people of the world for centuries and provides many health benefits.

Age Prevention – Dark chocolate (not the processed junk that is filled with sugar, preservatives and chemicals) is one of the best sources of antioxidants, polyphenols and flavanols containing even more than acai berries. These organic compounds neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body helping to prevent aging of cells and may help prevent cancer.

Could the dark chocolate fountain so often seen at parties be the next Fountain of Youth?

Heart Health – One of the most abundant minerals found in chocolate is magnesium. Magnesium prevents muscle cramps and, when balanced with calcium in the blood, supports healthy heart rhythm by stimulating the contraction and relaxation of the heart while it pumps blood through the chambers.

Consuming dark chocolate has been known to decrease LDL cholesterol and raises HDL, the good cholesterol. When combined with a healthy diet, chocolate can also help reduce insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes and heart disease.

In an observational study, eating dark chocolate 2 or more times per week lowered the risk of plaque calcification in the arteries of the participants by 32%. In another study, participants eating chocolate more than 5 times per week lowered the risk of heart disease by a whopping 57%! These studies are observational and do not take into consideration other contributing factors.

Blood Pressure Reduction – Flavanols in chocolate stimulate the lining of the arteries to produce nitric oxide which signals the arteries to relax, lowering the resistance of blood flow and consequently lowering blood pressure.  However, effects are mild and eating chocolate alone is not recommended to treat chronically elevated blood pressure.

Bone Formation Magnesium, one of many minerals found in dark chocolate, supports the break down and rebuilding of bone tissue when combined with calcium in the body. This activity is an important factor in the prevention of osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Hormone Support – Chocolate contains an abundance of several minerals including iron, magnesium, copper and as much as 98% of the recommended daily allowance of manganese in a 3.5 ounce bar. Zinc and selenium support healthy function of ovaries and testes which are responsible for the production of estrogen and testosterone.

Improved Brain Function – Chocolate improves blood flow to the brain supplying energy and aiding in multiple brain activities. It has shown signs of improving cognition in elderly people. It also stimulates the release of dopamine associated with feelings of pleasure and happiness.

To Sum it Up – Yes, chocolate has amazing health benefits, but it’s important to remember that not all chocolate is created equal. Like any other food, quality is of utmost importance. Look for dark chocolate of 65% or greater. If possible, choose organic and try chocolate made from local chocolatiers for a high quality special treat.

Even dark chocolate contains a fair amount of sugar, a modest amount of caffeine and several calories. Just an ounce or two 3 to 5 times per week can provide amazing health benefits without adding inches to the waistline.

“Living Life Healthy and Happy!”