Uncover the Health Benefits In This Surprising Superfood
Craving chocolate? You are not alone – statistics show the average American eats nearly 20 pounds of chocolate per year!
Taste undoubtedly plays a role in chocolate’s popularity, but you may be surprised to learn that this delectable treat can be good for your health when enjoyed in moderation.
Studies show that dark chocolate provides powerful benefits and can even lower the risk of heart disease. Let’s take a look at what makes this superfood so special.
Chocolate Contains Powerful Antioxidants
Made from the seed of the cacao tree, chocolate is one of the best sources of antioxidants you can find.
Chocolate and cocoa powder contain hefty quantities of natural antioxidants called flavonoids.
Antioxidants are important to our health because they absorb free radicals that cause damage in the body.
Research from the Journal of the American Heart Association shows that the antioxidants found in chocolate can help prevent cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
Chocolate is Rich in Nutrients and Vitamins
High-quality dark chocolate packs a big nutritional punch.
Raw chocolate contains:
- Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B9 and E.
- Heart-healthy fats.
- Protein.
- Fiber.
- Essential minerals, including calcium, sulfur, zinc, iron, copper, and potassium.
Incorporating chocolate into your diet can help you reach daily targets for these important nutrients.
Chocolate Contains the Magnesium Your Body Needs
Our bodies use magnesium for more than 300 biochemical reactions. Magnesium is essential for muscle and nerve function and also keeps the heart rhythm steady.
Research shows that chocolate is an excellent source of magnesium with more than 60 mg in every ounce.
Chocolate Can Boost Your Mood
Need a pick-me-up? Science now proves that dark chocolate increases the production of feel-good chemicals called endorphins.
Endorphins bind with receptors in the brain, leading to feelings of euphoria. This boost is similar to the good feelings that come from exercise.
Endorphins also reduce pain, diminish the negative effects of stress, and keep the immune system running smoothly.
How to Incorporate Chocolate Into Your Diet
When it comes to chocolate, the old adage quality over quantity applies. Look for dark chocolate with 70-90 percent cocoa.
The high concentration of cocoa means the chocolate contains more of the important vitamins and nutrients with less sugar and fat.
You can find a large variety of chocolate bars with high cocoa percentages at most grocery stores.
Learn More About Chocolate With Senior Star
Senior Star communities offer ways to taste, explore, and learn more about superfoods like chocolate each month.
At our signature Mixology events, you can sip concoctions like Mexican hot chocolate or maybe try a classic chocolate martini while you socialize with fellow residents.
Try a cooking class where you can learn to make things like a chocolate mole or a decadent chocolate mousse.
Ask for a schedule of the exciting events taking place each week at your Senior Star community.
Contact us to learn more.