It goes without saying that chocolate is delicious, but did you know it also has many medical benefits? Studies have shown that this sweet treat can help prevent cavities, improve your mood, and relieve pain. If you’re looking for a way to satisfy your sweet tooth with something good for you too, this list of facts about chocolate should be a great place to start.
From the rich flavors to the multitude of different types of chocolate available today, there are many reasons why people love cocoa-based products so much.
Facts about chocolate you probably don’t know:
1) Chocolate Contains Antioxidants
Did you know that chocolate is the best natural source of antioxidants? Antioxidants are produced in the body naturally, but many foods and drinks can help improve your antioxidant intake.
2) William III Employed a Chocolate Maker
William III employed the first royal chocolate maker, Solomon de la Faya. However, William III isn’t alone in valuing chocolate so highly. Chocolate has remained a popular gift even now that it is relatively inexpensive. For example, companies often send corporate chocolate gifts to clients and as a reward to employees.
3) Chocolate Boosts Your Mood
Research has shown that chocolate can help relieve stress and lift your mood. If you’re feeling sad or stressed, opt for a square of dark chocolate, which is high in antioxidants and has been proven to relieve stress.
4) Chocolate Is Good for Your Teeth
Research has also shown that cocoa can help prevent cavities. Your dentist will be happy to know that this sweet treat can help improve oral health.
5) Chocolate Can Be Good for Your Heart
Dark chocolate contains flavonoids which help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Raising levels of good cholesterol can reduce your risk of heart disease.
6) Chocolate Is an Aphrodisiac
It probably isn’t a surprise to you that chocolate can boost your libido, but did you know that cocoa beans are an aphrodisiac? If you’re looking for a way to spice up your love life, reach for a piece of dark chocolate the next time you’re feeling frisky.
7) Chocolate Can Help You Lose Weight
Researchers have been hard at work trying to determine whether or not chocolate is good for weight loss, but there are many reasons why it might be. Chocolate can make you feel full which means you won’t eat as much. The antioxidant levels in chocolate can also help to keep your body healthy so you will stand the best chance of losing as much weight as possible.
8) Chocolate Can Relieve Pain
Did you know that chocolate contains magnesium and has been proven to reduce pain? The same flavonoids found in dark chocolate have also been shown to relieve pain and relax tension. If you’re suffering from back pain or another type of ache, try munching on a few squares of dark chocolate to see if it provides any relief.
9) The Easter Bunny Loves Chocolate
While all bunnies enjoy a good hoppy snack, the Easter Bunny is especially partial to chocolate. In fact, many Americans will be surprised to learn that the Easter Bunny is allergic to many vegetables but can eat as much chocolate as he wants.
10) Chocolate Was Once Used as Medicine
Did you know that chocolate was used to treat various ailments such as headaches and fevers? The ancient Mayans and Incas even believed that eating cocoa would help improve blood circulation and relieve fatigue.
Chocolate has many health benefits but eating too much of it can be bad for you. Munch on a piece of dark chocolate a day to get the most health benefits out of it. Make sure you’re choosing the right kind, though. Dark chocolate is the healthiest way to enjoy this delicious treat. You should also keep in mind that moderation is key with any food and drink that you consume, including chocolate.
