Chocolate. Rich, creamy chocolate. Melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. The word itself is sinful. But I have good news, ladies! The sweet treat often avoided by dieters actually has unparalleled health benefits. Of course, we’re talking dark chocolate. Sorry, your Snickers stash doesn’t count- the world isn’t that kind. But dark chocolate? Your body will definitely be thanking you.
Chocolate isn’t commonly associated with kale, quinoa, and acai- but oh my, it should be! With wide-ranging benefits, dark chocolate has proven to be quite the superfood. Dark chocolate contains key vitamins and minerals that our bodies need: magnesium, manganese, fiber, iron, copper, selenium, phosphorous, and potassium. All this sounds great, but what does it mean for our bodies?
Dark chocolate can:
Improve Brain Function
Study-break and chocolate-break just became synonymous! By increasing blood flow, dark chocolate reenergizes the brain to enhance memory and cognitive function.
Reduce Stress
Anxiety or blissful indulgence? Dark chocolate raises endorphins and enhances the effect of serotonin- the happy chemical. Before your next exam, skip the panic-attack and opt for a dark chocolate truffle instead.
Help Fight Fatigue
Afternoon nap or afternoon snack? The essential minerals found in dark chocolate regulates sleep cycles and boosts energy.
There you have it, ladies! The proof is in the pudding- the chocolate pudding, I might add. Dark chocolate, with all of its nutrient-dense glory, is truly a girl’s best friend.