The benefits of dark chocolate for cancer are scientifically proven, as dark chocolate contains a lot of flavonoids, antioxidants and medical studies show that it provides protection for the vascular system, heart and brain.
With the increase in scientific studies and research associated with demonstrating the many health benefits of dark chocolate's antioxidant-rich content, it has become a popular food item.
What are antioxidants?
Chocolate is made from a cocoa plant rich in flavanols.
Antioxidants are plant compounds, which some studies believe help resist cell sabotage caused by free radicals in the body.
There are thousands of types of antioxidant are available in plant foods.
Antioxidants reduce exposure to certain diseases, including heart disease.
In fact, a 2010 Harvard study published in the journal American Heart Association showed that heart disease decreased by 32% in women who consumed 1-3 servings of dark chocolate containing 30% cocoa per month.
It is worth noting, that the quota increase intake has a detrimental effect on health in general.
What are flavonoids?
Flavonoids are antioxidant compounds, and those in chocolate are called flavonols, which give cocoa its pungent flavor, and these compounds are effective in fighting free radicals and increasing the antioxidant power of blood cells when oxidizing specific cells.
Benefits of dark chocolate
The flavonols contained in dark chocolate are thought to improve cardiovascular function.
Research on the benefits of flavonoids has shown that they have a positive effect in lowering blood pressure, reducing blood clotting, and improving blood flow to the heart and brain, which means that these flavonoids can be an important part of maintaining cardiovascular health.
A 2010 German study published in the European Heart Journal showed that men's moderate intake of dark chocolate lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of strokes and heart disease.
Also, a study conducted at the University of Oxford in 2009 on the benefits of flavonoids on memory, showed that consuming a moderate amount of dark chocolate improves cognitive abilities.
Moderation is key
Chocolate is high in calories, and contains a good amount of fat and sugar, all associated with weight gain, and to maintain the antioxidant benefits, moderation in eating chocolate is the key to enjoying the health benefits of chocolate. Therefore, you should look for high-quality chocolate that contains 30% cocoa or more.