Whether you pair it with a cup of tea, a handful of raspberries, or just enjoy a couple of squares on their own, there's nothing better than dark chocolate in the afternoon. But did you know that this beloved treat can help you sleep better or improve your performance? Its benefits are constantly talked about. Let's figure out the benefits of dark chocolate without sugar.
ContentWhat are the health benefits of dark chocolate without sugar? What are the benefits of dark chocolate without sugar in training? How and when should you eat dark chocolate?
WomanEL reminds you that dark chocolate contains more cocoa, which is the carrier of many benefits. The higher the cocoa content, the lower the sugar content. The content of dark chocolate typically ranges from 70% to 99% (in some cases even 100%), so the higher the percentage, the less sugar and more cocoa there is in the chocolate. When buying a treat, choose one that contains at least 70% cocoa.
What are the health benefits of dark chocolate without sugar
- Stress relief. A 2022 review by scientists at the Shibaura Institute of Technology found that a certain type of polyphenol found in chocolate (known as B-type procyanidins) may help our bodies adapt to stress.
- Improved heart health. Flavanols, heart-healthy plant nutrients, are found in many foods, but raw cocoa is high in them.
- Improved sleep. Chocolate increases serotonin levels – serotonin helps you fall asleep at night.
What are the benefits of dark chocolate without sugar in training
- Improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
- Cocoa is also rich in magnesium, which, among its more than 600 roles, plays a key role in relaxing muscles and nerves, as well as energy production. Cocoa also contains some calcium and iron, which are important for maintaining healthy bones and transporting oxygen throughout the body.
- Reduces inflammation. There is also some evidence that dark chocolate may help support mitochondrial function and reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammation.
How and when should you eat dark chocolate?
Although dark chocolate is suitable for most people at any time of day, it contains small amounts of caffeine, so it is best avoided by those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine or prone to stress and anxiety.
It is better to eat dark chocolate during the day rather than in the evening. 20-30g is a reasonable serving size, and dark chocolate is more bitter than milk and white chocolate, so you're less likely to overdo it.
We recently discussed what Japanese tea is hojicha. It turns out to be incredibly beneficial for health.