Chocolate is credited with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, aphrodisiac status and a means of good brain function, but what is true? Let’s find out! We warn you right away: for maximum benefit, choose options with a high cocoa content.
Protects the skin
A 2009 study found that adults who ate 20 grams of high-cocoa chocolate daily for three months had to withstand twice as much UV exposure before their skin started to turn red, compared to those who ate regular chocolate. Sounds like it’s time to get ready for summer! And we’re not talking about the gym.
Lifts the mood
Chocolate contains a small amount of tryptophan, an amino acid used by the brain to produce serotonin, which helps cope with anxiety and worry, and gives a feeling of emotional stability and calm. In addition, it contains the amino acid phenylethylalanine, which is essential for the health of the central nervous system, and has a beneficial effect on memory and concentration.
Ensures sound sleep
According to research, dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, which helps keep your body’s biological clocks — circadian rhythms — in order. Researchers from the Universities of Edinburgh and Cambridge believe that magnesium helps cells maintain a sense of time, allowing the body to maintain a natural cycle of being awake during the day and sleeping at night.
Improves heart health
A study conducted by the University of Aberdeen involving more than 20,000 middle-aged and older people found that those who ate up to a small bar a day had an 11% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 23% lower risk of stroke compared to those who did not eat chocolate. True, sweets can also make you gain weight, which, on the contrary, will lead to heart problems.
Lowers blood pressure
This fact about the benefits of cocoa beans was discovered in a surprising way. A team of scientists studied the Kuna Indians who live on isolated islands near Panama, as well as those members of the community who left their homeland. It turned out that the islanders have lower blood pressure. Scientists linked this to their healthy habit of drinking five cups of a drink based on natural cocoa powder per day.
Improves brain activity
A three-decade-long study has shown that eating any kind of chocolate at least once a week can improve memory, concentration and problem-solving. Researchers at the University of South Australia relied on dietary data from more than 1,000 people. It turned out that those who regularly indulged in chocolate performed better on a variety of memory tests.