I have a confession to make... just in time for Valentine's Day, I've fallen head over heels in love.
While the object of my affection isn't tall and handsome, it can be dark. What's more, now there's another piece of evidence that the love of my life, chocolate, has health benefits.
Previous studies have linked chocolate to a reduced risk of cancer, lowered blood pressure, slower clumping of platelets, and increased blood flow to the brain. One study even found that participants were able to count backwards better after drinking hot cocoa. (But can it do my taxes?)
A new study found that out of 44,000 participants, those who ate a serving of chocolate a week were 22 percent less likely to suffer a stroke. Of course there are likely other factors involved in the reduced stroke risk, and researchers are still studying the link. But, I'll happily eat a few ounces of chocolate in the name of stroke prevention!
Possible health perks aren't a green light to eat as many peanut butter cups as you want, however. When choosing your sweet treat, opt for dark chocolate (the darker, the better).
Flavonoids, a compound found in cacao, are the source of all of chocolate's health perks. Darker, less processed chocolates will contain more flavonoids.
Try these tips for incorporating healthy amounts of chocolate into your diet:
- Snack on a few ounces of chocolate-covered cacao nibs.
- Sprinkle unsweeted cocoa powder on strawberries and whipped topping.
- Savor a small square of dark chocolate after dinner.
- Dip strawberries, slices of banana or orange segments in melted chocolate.
- Add a little unsweetened cocoa powder to your morning coffee.
- Munch on chocolate-covered almonds or soy nuts.
Keep in mind that those heart-shaped boxes, stuffed full of chocolates, aren't the best way to say "I love you" to your body. All that milk chocolate covered nougat and cream, is more sugar than anything. But, there is a place for a few ounces of dark chocolate in a healthy diet.
Article courtesy of Diet Blog - eat right, get healthy. |
