A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH CHOCOLATE. HOW?
Chocolate is often considered the go-to indulgent snack that brings joy and pleasure to the majority of people.
Its rich, velvety texture, delectable flavours, and enticing aroma have the power to captivate the senses and create moments of pure indulgence. However, we all know that eating chocolate in excessive amounts can have negative health effects. Does this mean you should cut off on eating chocolate? No! It’s important to enjoy chocolate in moderation because this sweet temptation is packed with health benefits. Continue reading to find out more!
Why should you have a healthy relationship with chocolate?
- Improves Cognitive Function: Dark chocolate or cocoa extracts, which are high in flavonoids, greatly improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of memory loss in older people. It also fights against inflammation and is found to be beneficial in treating brain injuries.
- Boosts Heart Health: A few servings of chocolate a week reduces the risk of getting a heart attack and stroke. The flavonoids and antioxidants in chocolate can help your veins and arteries stay supple, which reduces the risk of clotting and improves blood circulation to the heart.
- Reduces Stress: The consumption of chocolate is associated with reduced levels of the stress hormone – cortisol. This may also be linked to the heart health benefits of chocolate, as stress is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, it contains phenylethylamine that encourages your brain to release endorphins which help in improving mental health and preventing depression.
While chocolate’s indulgent nature brings pleasure to many, it’s important to remember to consume it in moderation. Balancing our enjoyment of chocolate with a healthy and varied diet ensures that we can savour its delights while maintaining overall well-being. So, embrace the occasional indulgence, savour the experience, and let chocolate add a touch of bliss to your day.
