By Eshana Saha
Published Jan 23, 2025

Hindustan Times
Lifestyle

Pinterest

6 surprising health benefits of dark chocolate

A mineral-rich treat: Dark chocolate is packed with minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc, offering several health benefits. Here's what you should know.

Powerful antioxidants: High in antioxidants like flavanols and polyphenols, dark chocolate helps fight oxidative stress, reducing the risk of diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Heart-healthy benefits: Regular consumption may improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and “bad” cholesterol, and increasing “good” cholesterol.

Fighting inflammation: Anti-inflammatory properties in dark chocolate help reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of conditions like arthritis and type 2 diabetes.

Brain-boosting powers: Dark chocolate may improve brain function by enhancing neuroplasticity and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Gut-friendly chocolate: Enjoying dark chocolate can boost the diversity of your gut microbiome, which positively affects digestion and even mood.

Choose wisely: To get the most health benefits, choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao solids, as it contains more flavanols and less sugar.

Moderation is key: While dark chocolate offers amazing benefits, remember: moderation is key, as it's high in calories, fats, and sugars.