Ravi Speaks:-“Chocolate increases heart-health.”

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Ravi Speaks: 

Updated article –10.03.2023

‘CHOCOLATE’-INCREASES HEART-HEALTH

Yes, it is now established beyond doubt that chocolate is very beneficial to health, elevating mood and above all developing the immunity of the human body.

Although it receives a lot of bad press propagation also-that is mainly because it contains high sugar content and fat content. Its consumption has been associated with acne, obesity, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and diabetes.

On the contrary-Dark chocolate may also contain less fat and sugar as compared to light or commercially used chocolate and has many reports even published in the indexed journals about its advantages.

Eating chocolate may have the following benefits:

lowering cholesterol levels

preventing cognitive decline

reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems

Following are some fast facts about chocolate:

Chocolate consumption has long been associated with conditions such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. Chocolate is believed to contain high levels of antioxidants. Some studies have suggested chocolate could lower cholesterol levels and prevent memory decline. Chocolate contains many calories. People who are seeking to lose or maintain weight should eat chocolate only in moderation. Chocolate’s antioxidant potential may have a range of health benefits. The higher the cocoa content, as in dark chocolate, the more benefits there are.

Can Chocolate consumption make one happy:

Chocolate contains several compounds associated with mood-lifting chemicals in the brain. Tryptophan, an amino acid present in small quantities in chocolate, is linked to the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that produces feelings of happiness.

Increases heart health: 

The antioxidants in dark chocolate have been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of clotting and increase blood circulation to the heart, thus lowering the risks of stroke, coronary heart disease, and death from heart disease.

Chocolate is especially rich in flavanols like epicatechin and catechin, as well as anthocyanins and phenolic acids. These compounds help protect your cells from inflammation, improve your brain function, and boost your immune and cardiovascular health. Dark chocolate can also give you cardiovascular support.

Chocolate is a high-energy (high calorie) food, and too much can cause excess weight, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Healthier sources of polyphenols include beans, pulses, fruit, and vegetables.

The Comparison of Light and Dark Chocolate: 

The following table elaborately discusses the exact quantity of all the essential nutrients in each, clearly showing the high content of these in Dark chocolates. Another reason being the high level of cocoa in dark chocolates. The darker the chocolate, the higher the concentration of cocoa, and so, in theory, the higher the level of antioxidants there will be in the bar.

However, nutrients vary widely in commercially available chocolate bars, depending on the brand and type you choose. It is best to check the label if you want to be sure of the nutrients.

Unsweetened chocolates and 100 percent cocoa products are available for purchase online and at some grocery and health food stores.

When Dr.Natalie Butler, RD, LD was asked what extent the heart patients or even the high blood pressure patients can be benefitted with chocolates-His reply was very specific and clear which is:-

Considering that heart disease is the number one killer and that dark chocolate has been shown to substantially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, I believe regular chocolate consumption can be a good thing. Always choose above 70 percent cacao and select your brand wisely to keep your cadmium, lead, and sugar low while maximizing the antioxidant and flavonol benefits.

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