Are you fond of dark chocolate? You’d better be, as this popular cocoa-rich product is undoubtedly the healthiest among desserts. Its numerous health benefits compensate for the bitter taste that most people find unpleasant.

This type of dessert is an abundant source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, all of which play an indispensable role in both the physical and mental health of individuals. Nowadays, there is an increasing number of functional dark chocolate candies made from high-quality ingredients, such as Sourse vitamins, promoting energy boost, and improved mental focus.

The following health benefits of dark chocolate will persuade you to give functional candies a chance.

Source of antioxidants

One of the greatest health benefits of consuming this cocoa-rich dessert is having antioxidant properties, provided by the presence of flavanols and polyphenols. The antioxidant nature of these compounds is crucial in the fight with oxidative stress, induced by the excessive amount of free radicals. These harmful compounds are believed to be the main culprits for causing tissue damage and inflammation.

Antioxidants are known to be the most powerful tools of one’s body in the fight with free radicals, hence preventing the development of severe diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, etc. The cocoa is boasted for its high amount of antioxidants, even higher than the antioxidant value of the wine. Hence, make sure the following dark chocolate candy you buy contains a minimum of 80 % cocoa. The more cocoa it contains the healthier it is.

Source of vitamins

Apart from being a source of antioxidants, dark chocolate contains a variety of vitamins, each of them providing specific health benefits. For instance, this dessert contains vitamin A, otherwise known as Retinol, beneficial for one’s eyesight, cell growth, and protein synthesis. Additionally, it plays a major role in skin health by improving hydration, preventing acne breakout, and sun damage.

Moreover, vitamin B12 is part of the water-soluble nutrients, accounting for 0, 23 micrograms of dark chocolate’s nutritive value. It increases the production of red blood cells, thus preventing anemia and minimizing fatigue. The optimal levels of vitamin B12 improve one’s mood, provide an energy boost, prevent osteoporosis, and benefit brain health. Visit this page to learn more about its physical and mental health benefits in detail.

In addition, vitamin E is another beneficial nutrient found in this cocoa-rich dessert, known for its antioxidant properties. As a result, it minimizes the risk of diabetes, reduces cholesterol levels, and lowers the chances of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Furthermore, vitamin K accounts for 8, 1 microgram in 100 grams of dark chocolate, thus playing an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular issues. More importantly, it aids coagulation, which is of essential importance in the event of blood vessel injures, due to the prevention of excessive bleeding.

Dark chocolate is also rich in Riboflavin, otherwise known as vitamin B2, being popular as one of the water-soluble nutrients. Since the body isn’t capable of storing Riboflavin, it’s paramount for it to be consumed through food. Riboflavin impedes oxidative damage and considerably reduces exhaustion in individuals.

Additionally, cocoa-rich candies contain vitamin B3, called niacin, beneficial for the overall health of people. Niacin is known for increasing the levels of good cholesterol while reducing the ones of bad cholesterol. For further guidance on the benefits, recommended dosage, and sources of niacin, visit the following link, https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-niacin#1.

Source of minerals

Besides antioxidants and nutrients, dark chocolate is a source of the most essential minerals, such as calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium. Calcium is responsible for the growth of healthy bones and teeth, whereas iron increases red blood cells count, improves oxygen transportation, and stimulates enzyme production.

Moreover, potassium is of essential importance for preventing hypertension and maintaining optimal electrolyte functions. Conversely, magnesium is known for preventing muscle fatigue and regulating blood sugar. Similar to magnesium, zinc prevents diabetes and regulates the function of the immune system. Ultimately, selenium is of tremendous importance in the fight with free radicals, thus impeding the damage done by oxidative stress.

Final word

Not all candies are bad for your weight and health.

Cocoa-rich desserts are both delicious and incredibly healthy!