Welcome to Mayesa’s BlogPosts Tagged ‘epicatechin’5 Surprising Health Benefits of Dark ChocolateDecember 28, 2013
Here are five health benefits of dark chocolate that just might surprise you. Dark chocolate: 1. Makes you slim Even though chocolate is loaded with calories, it contains ingredients that may favor weight loss rather than fat synthesis. Researchers have discovered that adults who consumed chocolate frequently had a lower BMI than those who didn’t. And, the number of calories decreases as the percentage of raw cacao in the dark chocolate increases. 2. Makes you smarter Dark chocolate is rich in chemical compounds called flavonoids, which has been found to boost brain activity. Cognitive skills are enhanced when flavonoids create new sets of neurons in the brain. These new neurons assist in the formation of new memories, as well as improving blood flow to the brain. 3. Prevents wrinkles Topical creams, lotions, and even cosmetic treatments by physicians, can only go so far in making your skin appear younger. For real sustainable results you need to look to your diet. Free radicals in our environment are some of the most extreme reasons why wrinkles appear in the skin. To fight free radicals, your diet should contain many sources of antioxidants. While fruits and vegetables are good sources of antioxidants, dark chocolate has actually been found to contain higher percentages of antioxidants than even “superfoods” such as blueberries. 4. Slows down muscle aging Recent studies are showing that the plant compound, epicatechin, found in dark chocolate, stimulates the same muscle response as does vigorous exercise. A type of antioxidant compound, epicatechin can help slow down muscle aging as well as improve lean muscle mass. 5. Helps you live longer There is antidotal evidence that dark chocolate can help you live longer. The oldest verified human being to have lived to 122 years old, Jeanne Calment, gave her daily consumption of dark chocolate credit for her longevitiy. And now scientists are finding that the high percentage of antioxidants in raw cacao may very well be the key that does help you live longer. This power-pack of antioxidants helps fight disease as well as cuts your risk for heart disease. For the health benefits of chocolate be sure you eat dark chocolate which is listed as 70% or higher. The percentage indicates the amount of raw cacao in the product, which is what contains the compounds that give you these wonderful health benefits. Photo Credit: livestrong.com
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