Dark chocolate has a surprising amount of health benefits associated with it that most of us would consider a guilty pleasure rather than a healthy food option. In general, dark chocolate has always had a reputation as a sweet dessert (and still does) along with its added sugar, but recent research suggests that dark chocolate has many positive health effects when consumed in moderation, especially when compared to white or milk chocolate.
As we discuss this topic, we will look at what makes dark chocolate unique from other types of chocolate and how dark chocolate can improve your health.
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1. Can help prevent sun damage
It may also improve blood circulation to your skin while providing antioxidant properties; therefore, it helps protect your skin against skin cancer by way of damage caused by UV radiation.
The review determined that if you consume dark chocolate on a regular basis, it could provide protection against the negative effects of the sun's rays on your skin.
Czerwony states that “particularly dark chocolates with high flavanol content are considered good sources of antioxidants, provide an increase in blood circulation to your skin, and therefore can protect your skin against UV damage.”
2. May enhance your mood
Eating dark chocolate has been known to positively impact your mood. The reason why dark chocolate is so frequently reported as "feeling" pleasurable when consumed could be attributed to the effects of phenolic compounds in it.
Polyphenols have also been shown to reduce the stress hormone cortisol (Peart). Research has shown that participants that consumed dark chocolate with a minimum of 85% cocoa had a significantly better average overall mood than those consuming chocolate with lesser concentrations or those who did not consume any chocolate.
3. Chocolate without Dairy
As the name of milk chocolate indicates, it has some kind of dairy ingredient, whereas dark chocolate is mostly considered nondairy. So, it is perfect for people with a milk allergy or those who choose to live on a dairy-free diet.
Peart says there is a chance that milk might be used in chocolate production, and hence it is always advisable to look at the ingredient list first before buying.
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