Diet, Tip of the Day - Updated

Try Dark Chocolate for Better Heart and Brain Health

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If you want a superfood that is not only delicious but also very healthy for you, grab a piece of dark chocolate. It can help keep your heart, brain, and skin healthy while improving your mood. This is due to the beneficial properties of dark chocolate.

Your Heart

First of all, it contains flavonoids, which are a type of antioxidant that helps your heart. Flavonoids improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure. Eating dark chocolate can also reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol, which keeps your arteries healthy and reduces the risk of heart disease.

Your Brain and Mood

Second, it improves brain health. Flavonoids also increase blood flow to the brain. This improves your ability to think more clearly and while improving memory. Your mood also improves as your brain releases endorphins and serotonin, which are chemicals that make you feel happy and relaxed. Furthermore, it can reduce stress, making you feel calmer.

DID YOU KNOW

Standard chocolate manufacturing destroys up to half of the flavonoids. But chocolate companies have now learned to make dark chocolate that keeps up to 95% of its flavonoid [1].

Your Skin and Other Benefits

In addition, the antioxidants in dark chocolate help protect your skin against sun damage by reducing the amount of free radicals caused by the sun’s rays.

Plus, due to its low glycemic index it also helps control blood sugar levels. This means it doesn’t spike your blood sugar levels when you eat it. This benefits those with diabetes or anyone who wants to avoid sugar highs and lows.

Finally, it contains iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese which are important minerals for overall health.

Keto Dark Chocolate Blueberry Walnut Bark

Ingredients:

1 cup dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
1/4 cup fresh blueberries
1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for a smoother texture)

Instructions:

Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Prepare the Bark: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the parchment paper, spreading it into a thin, even layer.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the blueberries and chopped walnuts evenly over the melted chocolate.
Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set.
Break into Pieces: Once set, break the chocolate bark into pieces. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving): Approximately 150 calories, 12g fat, 5g carbs, 2g fiber, 3g net carbs, 2g protein.

Conclusion

To get the most health benefits select dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. Darker chocolate has less sugar and more antioxidants. Make sure not to consume too much – everything in moderation. Remember, dark chocolate not only tastes good, it is also good for you. So, the next time you want an after dinner treat or something to nibble on with your red wine, grab a some dark chocolate

Check out The Truth About 32 Foods that Burn Belly Fat Fast.

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The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Therefore, always seek the support and guidance of your physician when you are unsure about any health issues.