Street chocolate is an amazing edible product that is readily available on shelves. However, very few people know the various health benefits it offers. These benefits should help you know the type of quality street chocolates to add to your diet. You should note that chocolate has been around for thousands of years. Nevertheless, it has evolved to include a wide range of ingredients. These are some of the health benefits derived from street chocolate.
Reduces Hypertension
An important mineral found in chocolate is copper. People who have a deficiency of copper have a higher risk of pancytopenia and anemia. As a result, its deficiency causes inflammation, myocardial hypertrophy, and hypertension. Since copper in chocolate acts as a co-factor in different enzymes, it is helpful in various processes, such as infant growth, metabolism, and iron transport.
Other than copper, chocolate contains various minerals that aid vascular function. For instance, it contains dietary magnesium, potassium, calcium, and copper that help reduce high blood sugar. Also, dietary potassium helps protect the body against hypertension that is caused by sodium intake.
Improves Heart Health
Various minerals found in chocolate help improve heart health. Several studies have been conducted to ascertain the effects of chocolate on the body. For instance, one of the studies found that patients who consumed chocolate were less likely to suffer from cardiac arrest as compared to those that did not eat chocolate. Some further studies have also been done to emphasize the relationship between heart failure and chocolate consumption.
Improves Mood
You have probably heard of people who consume chocolate before sex. This is because it has been found to be effective in improving sexual performance. This is attributed to the different minerals it contains. For instance, it contains magnesium which aids protein synthesis. Additionally, it aids energy production and muscle relaxation. Therefore, it will have an impact on your sexual life. Other studies have found that elderly persons who eat chocolate feel less lonely. Therefore, it is a good candy for people who feel depressed.
Contains Antioxidants
Chocolate sourced from cocoa powder contains antioxidants and polyphenols. Since it is rich in flavanols, it has a bitter taste. The major flavanols found in chocolate include procyanidins, catechin, and epicatechin. These antioxidants are useful in getting rid of free radicals from the body. Thus, eating chocolate helps the body to fight diseases. Remember that free radicals result in chain reactions that damage the body cells.
Improve Brain Function
Another benefit associated with eating chocolate is improved cognitive function. That explains why chocolate is recommended for kids. Flavanols found in chocolate help boost brain power. As a result, children who eat chocolate regularly have improved thinking skills.
Conclusion
If you are not sure whether street chocolate is good for you, consider these health benefits it provides. Even then, you can only get these benefits if you consume quality chocolate. Ensure you know how the chocolate you consume is made and what it contains. Also, you should pay attention to the brand of chocolate you buy.