Searching for more reasons to indulge in your favorite treat? Look no further! Here are eight reasons to eat more chocolate.
1. It can improve heart health
A study by The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology found that dark chocolate helps restore flexibility to arteries while also preventing white blood cells from sticking to the walls of blood vessels which are both common causes of artery clogging. Who knew?
2. It is mineral rich
Good news for dark chocolate lovers... this bitter sweet (70 per cent dark or more) is full of beneficial minerals such as potassium, zinc and selenium. An 100g bar of dark chocolate provides 67 per cent of the recommended daily intake of iron.
Christie's Chocolate Chip Cookie Basket
3. Chocolate is good for the brain
Got an important test coming up? Snack on a chocolate treat beforehand! Flavanols (present in cocoa) are thought to reduce memory loss in older people and the anti-inflamatory qualities of dark chocolate have been found to be beneficial in treating brain injuries such as concussion.
4. It is good for mothers and babies
This one really caught me off guard. According to a fairly recent Finnish study, chocolate can reduce stress in expectant mothers and the babies of such mothers often smile more often than those of non-chocolate-eating parents.
5. It can offer cough relief
Theobromine, a chemical found in chocolate, has been shown to suppress coughs by acting on the nerve endings that trigger the body's cough reflex. Not a fan of cough drops or syrups? Try chocolate for a tasty alternative.
6. It's an affordable way to treat yourself
You’d be hard pressed to find a luxury as affordable as chocolate. It makes the perfect high-end gift without breaking the bank!
7. Its an easy way to expand your tastes
Chocolate is such a versatile ingredient. You can have it savory, bitter, sweet, citrusy, nutty, however you like! And it's easy to use in cooking or baking. Nervous to try something new? Chocolate can be a simple way to take small steps into unexplored tasting territory.
Chocolate Cheese & Wine Lovers Selection
8. Chocolate makes you feel better
Chocolate contains phenylethylamine (PEA) which is the same chemical that your brain creates when you feel like you’re falling in love. According to the Ramsay Health Care organization, "PEA encourages your brain to release feel-good endorphins."
We hope these inspire you to enjoy your favorite treat more often. Here's to enjoying more chocolate!