A hostess serves visitors at a chocolate fountain during a chocolate convention in Lima July 7, 2011. The three-day exhibition, which drew distributors from Latin America and chocolate sommeliers from Europe, featured organic dark chocolate candy bars, ch
IN PHOTO: A hostess serves visitors at a chocolate fountain during a chocolate convention in Lima July 7, 2011. The three-day exhibition, which drew distributors from Latin America and chocolate sommeliers from Europe, featured organic dark chocolate candy bars, chocolate sushi and Machu Picchu sculptures carved out of the sweet stuff. Reuters/Pilar Olivares

Craving for dark chocolate? Go ahead and indulge yourself because this sweet treat is one of the healthiest in the plant. Check out these five reasons why you should eat dark chocolate.

  1. It keeps your heart healthy

Based on a 9-year study of Swedish researchers, women who ate one or two servings a week of this sweet, melt-in-your-mouth treat can prevent heart failure. Meanwhile, another study in Germany proved that even just a square of dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart problems to up to 39 percent.

  1. It protects against the sun’s harmful rays

Dark chocolates have bioactive compounds and flavonols, which are all essential in protecting the skin from UV rays. Flavonols also improve blood circulation in our skin and keeps it hydrated. So take some dark chocolates with you the next time you plan to spend the day outdoors.

  1. It is rich in antioxidants

Dark chocolate is rich in organic compounds, which serve as antioxidants. It is also abundant in polyphenols, flavanols and catechins. As a matter of fact it contains more antioxidants than apple. It can effectively cleanse the whole body by eliminating toxins.

  1. It can lower cholesterol

The flavanols present in dark chocolate stimulates the endothelium, which is the lining of our arteries which in return produces Nitric Oxide (NO). NO is a gas that signals the arteries to relax in order for blood to flow smoothly, thus lowering blood pressure.

5. It may prevent complications among pregnant women

Chocolates, especially dark ones, contain a chemical called theobromine, which can effectively reduce the risk of preeclampsia among pregnant women. According to the study, eating chocolate helps prevent preeclampsia for up to 69 percent. This is especially true among those who ate at least five servings a week during their third trimester.

The next time you’re tempted to satisfy your sweet tooth, think of these reasons why you should eat dark chocolate. They will inspire you to eat this yummy treat because of its numerous benefits.

For questions/comments regarding the article, you may email the writer at sprevendido25ibtimes@gmail.com

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