What happens to your body when you eat dark chocolate?

As Sabrina Russo, RD from New York State put it, "Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants, including polyphenols, flavanols, and catechins. These antioxidants help protect cells of the body against free radicals, which could lead to heart disease and cancer."

eatthis.com - What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Dark Chocolate

At what age is stress the highest?

18-33 age According to the American Psychological Association (APA), people in the 18-33 age group suffer the highest levels of stress in the U.S.

Last updated Nov 23, 2018

What happens if you don't pee for 4 days?

If you don't empty your bladder often enough, or go a couple of days without emptying it all the way, it can result in a urinary tract infection...

Last updated Aug 28, 2020

Promotion

There's no better dessert for the pseudo-healthy than dark chocolate. The age-old myth about dark chocolate is that it is a relatively healthy dessert option. In fact, rumor has it that dark chocolate isn't just less unhealthy, but that it might have some nutritional value of its own—a rich combination of beneficial antioxidants. To find out if this decadent dessert really is a healthy food, we went straight to the source of all definitive nutrition information: the experts. We spoke with nutritionists and dietitians to get a clear outlook on this healthy dessert, asking them one question: what exactly happens to your body when you eat dark chocolate? Here's what they had to say, and for even more healthy eating tips, be sure to check out our list of The 7 Healthiest Foods to Eat Right Now.

1 You might have a healthier heart.

Dark chocolate is indeed loaded with antioxidants. In fact, one study by BMC Chemistry found that dark chocolate's antioxidant capabilities were more powerful than any other fruit tested. As Sabrina Russo, RD from New York State put it, "Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants, including polyphenols, flavanols, and catechins. These antioxidants help protect cells of the body against free radicals, which could lead to heart disease and cancer." When it comes to protecting your heart, if you eat a piece of dark chocolate, it could be just as beneficial as that slice of fruit (if not more!) Not sure which kind to get? Here are The 17 Best and Worst Dark Chocolates.

2 You'll have safer, stronger skin.

The flavonoid antioxidant Russo mentioned has what seems like endless benefits. One that took us by surprise? It might actually act as a partner-in-crime to sunscreen. "The flavanols in chocolate may also help prevent your skin from sun damage," Russo says. "These compounds improve blood flow, skin thickness, and hydration." Get even more healthy tips straight to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter!

3 Your blood pressure could lower.

Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, Head of Nutrition & Wellness at WW (formerly Weight Watchers), reiterated Russo's assessment of dark chocolate as a great source of antioxidants. "By weight, chocolate has the highest levels of polyphenols than all other foods—a.k.a antioxidant compounds," says London. "When it comes to choosing chocolate: The higher percentage of cacao, the higher the antioxidant content of the chocolate itself. And dark chocolate typically contains higher levels than other types, which makes it a more antioxidant-rich choice."

What eye color can see best in the dark?

While blue eyes are more sensitive to light during the day, people with blue eyes tend to see better at night – unless there are bright lights. In...

Last updated Dec 2, 2018

Should you ignore the first blood pressure reading?

Ignore the first day's readings altogether, because they might not be accurate as you're not familiar with your monitor yet. At the end of the week...

Last updated Mar 28, 2018

Promotion

These antioxidants, London went on to say, are "linked to reducing inflammation and regulating blood pressure." Russo agreed. "The flavanols in chocolate can help stimulate nitric oxide production in the arteries, which reduces the resistance to blood flow," she says. "Dark chocolate may help lower blood pressure." Along with dark chocolate, here are 20 Healthiest Foods That Lower Blood Pressure.

4 Your brain will function better.

The flavonoids found in dark chocolate might just be the miracle component. Not only do they protect your skin, your heart, and lower your blood pressure, but they also help your brain. "The flavonoids present in dark chocolate improve cognitive function by increasing cerebral blood flow," explains Dr. Rashmi Byakodi from Best for Nutrition. "[Dark chocolate] can benefit memory and cognition in healthy adults."

5 Yes, you could gain weight.

Even the healthiest dessert doesn't come without potential health risks.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

"Too much dark chocolate can lead to weight gain since dark chocolate is calorie-dense," says Natasha Bhuyan, MD. "Like most food, this is best to consume only in moderation." "Remember, chocolate of any type is still dessert," says London. "So if milk chocolate is more your style (as it is mine!), don't feel pressured to choose dark chocolate for the 'antioxidants' alone. As long as you're making a conscious effort to add more produce and other plant-based foods to the rest of your daily meals and snacks, feel free to reach for whatever sweet treat appeals to you most. Worry less about the purported health benefits and more about what you enjoy." Keep it healthy and still eat dark chocolate by making one of our favorite desserts! Try this Dark Chocolate Dipped Bananas or even these Dark Chocolate-Covered Almond Clusters With Coconut-Matcha Sprinkle!

eatthis.com - What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Dark Chocolate

What foods make your hair grow super fast?

The 13 Best Foods for Hair Growth Eggs. Eggs are a great source of protein and biotin, two nutrients that are essential for hair growth. ......

Last updated Jul 6, 2021

What is the best shampoo for gray hair?

15 Best Shampoos for Gray Hair to Bust Brassiness and Boost Shine Oribe Silverati Shampoo. ... Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Shampoo. ......

Last updated Oct 30, 2021

Promotion

Can I take 2 5mg Cialis daily?

The maximum dose of Cialis that can be taken in a day is 20 mg. You shouldn't take Cialis more than once a day. In clinical trials, Cialis helped...

Last updated Aug 16, 2019

Promotion

What vitamin is good for urethritis?

These steps may help reduce the chance of getting UTIs: Drink plenty of water every day. Drink cranberry juice. Large amounts of vitamin C limit...

Last updated Apr 14, 2020