Looking to dig into something delicious but, healthy? Look no further than dark chocolate. Yes, that’s right – it’s good to eat and packs a powerful nutritional punch.

It may go against everything you know, but dark chocolate provides a great deal of benefits when included in your diet. If you are wondering how, and are looking to satiate the chocolate fiend in you, remember, moderation is the key. Here is why dark chocolate should be an integral part of your life.

Rich concentrates of nutrients: Dark chocolate is rich in nutrients like iron, potassium, zinc and selenium. Just make sure you don’t eat too much of it and avoid the sugary variety available on supermarket shelves. Stick to organic dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. Dark chocolate is one of the best sources of antioxidants available. It is loaded with flavanols, polyphenols and catechins which provide us with multiple health benefits, including protecting the skin against sun damage.

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Stay heart healthy with dark chocolate: Studies have shown that dark chocolate increases the flexibility of the arteries. It also acts as a barrier to white cells, preventing them from clogging the arteries. The high amounts of antioxidants in dark chocolate control cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart diseases. An experiment in Finland found that consumption of dark chocolate decreased the risk of having a stroke by 17%.

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Get your brain function to improve: Nutrients in dark chocolate are believed to improve brain functioning both in the short term and in the long term. Studies have shown improved blood flow to the brain and enhanced cognitive abilities in older people. Its anti-inflammatory properties can be quite useful.

It prevents obesity: A piece of dark chocolate melted in the mouth can curb hunger pangs and decrease the consumption of food. The chocolate is believed to satiate the hormones that trigger hunger so that you eat less at meal times and decrease your snacking habit. Dark chocolate can improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin and delay the onset of diabetes.

It increases smiles: Studies have shown decreased stress levels in expectant mothers who regularly indulged themselves with dark chocolate. Dark chocolate triggers the brain to release endorphins, a feel-good chemical that drives away the blues.

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With so much going for it, dark chocolate is truly a food for the Gods. And humans who want to stay healthy and be happy!