First, improve brain function.
A study on 20 18 shows that flavanols in dark chocolate can enhance neuroplasticity. Eating dark chocolate regularly can improve brain function and help prevent neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Second, reduce the risk of heart disease.
Eating dark chocolate regularly can reduce the risk of heart disease, because some compounds in dark chocolate can affect high blood pressure and high cholesterol in the human body.
Flavanol in dark chocolate can stimulate the production of nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide can promote vasodilation, improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. According to a survey of 20 17, dark chocolate is more effective in lowering blood pressure for the elderly and patients with cardiovascular diseases. Compared with other snacks with high oil and salt, polyphenols and theobromine in chocolate may have certain effects on regulating blood lipid, but they cannot replace drugs.
Third, anti-inflammatory effect.
Inflammation is a part of the body's natural immune response to bacteria and other harmful substances. However, chronic inflammation can destroy cells and increase people's risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes and arthritis. Dark chocolate contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which helps people reduce inflammation in the body.
Fourth, reduce the risk of diabetes.
In a short-term study, it was found that flavonols in chocolate can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes.
Dark chocolate has many benefits to the human body, but it should also be eaten in moderation. Because different brands of chocolate have different sugar and fat contents. Eating too much chocolate may lead to too much sugar and fat, which is bad for people's health. Usually, the sugar content of dark chocolate is lower than that of white chocolate, so it is also recommended that you eat dark chocolate.