They say that chocolates are good for the heart and not just for the romantic heart but to the biological heart as well. Research done by experts show that cocoa helps increase flow-mediated dilation or FMD (Source: Journal of Applied Psychology). In other words, blood vessels dilate, allowing for better blood flow, which in turn reduces the risk for cardiovascular diseases.
This can be attributed to flavonoids, an antioxidant compound present in dark chocolates that increase the flexibility of veins and arteries. If doctors say that an apple a day keeps them away, they should also share that chocolates have five times flavonoid content than apples. To put icing on the cake, dark chocolates are also more filling (compared to the light ones) and will give you less craving for salty fatty foods. If you need help sticking to your diet, add in cocoa-enriched foods into it.
Most of the studies done on the subject support this particular benefit derived from eating chocolates but there is yet a more conclusive research as to the right amount needed to spur this activity in the bloodstream or should people eat as much chocolate as they can and continuously experience an improvement in their blood flow. Although most agree that the more chocolate you eat, the greater the health benefits, consumption of just 2 grams of cocoa (or a couple of squares and not the entire bar) is enough to reduce your risk of heart troubles.
Remember, always look for the dark chocolate variant, which has 70% more cocoa than other types. Other chocolate variants such as those with milk, sugar and butter can dilute the benefits which can be derived from cocoa. They add superb value into the taste, but they are not exactly good for one’s health and negate the cocoa’s job in our bloodstream.
