Chocolate is one of the most consumed foods around the world.
Not only for the irresistible and rich flavour it has but also the health benefits one could gain from munching a bar of chocolate.
An experiment was made with specific participants given dark, milk and white chocolates on a daily basis within a specific period of time.
Test results have shown that dark chocolate contains larger amount of an essential antioxidant compared to milk and white chocolates.
This antioxidant called phenol, an antioxidant found in the cacao bean, the main source of chocolate was discovered to have positive effects on blood pressure and the increase of nitric oxide which trims down platelet aggregation, and restrains oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
It can help decrease blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and increase a person’s insulin sensitivity.
Another important discovery about dark chocolates is that it helps people retain information and store it in their long term memory.
It is proven to improve memory as much as 20% because it contains another strong antioxidant called epicatechin, a type of flavonoid that is very effective in improving cognitive ability of human brain and further helps in preventing dementia.
The compound, epicatechin is previously seen to improve cardiovascular function as it increases blood flow in the brain.
Health experts also recommended a combination of regular exercise and a diet with epicatechin that can help promote structural and functional changes in the dentate gyrus, a part of the brain involved in the formation of learning and memory.
An estimated small amount of four slices of dark chocolates added to the daily diet will certainly suffice.
Dark chocolates with epicatechin combined with other essential nutrients can help a person overcome depression, improve immunity as well as help in easing the mental stress.
It also stimulates endorphin production, also known as “happy hormones”. It contains serotonin, which acts as anti-depressant by lightening up a person’s mood that can all contribute to enhancing one’s memory in a very natural way.
The bitterness of dark chocolates is also brought by the compound epicatechin, which is removed in a certain process to produce a less-bitter white and milk chocolates.
Along with this process, 90% of phenols and some of the important nutrients are disintegrated making the other types of chocolates less nutritious.
Dark chocolate is surely the best chocolate for one’s health. So, before holding a pen and start an exam, go grab some dark chocolate and take a bite. This yummy and healthy habit will sure bring you results.
