Let’s Get Dark About Chocolate
This time of year, it’s almost impossible to avoid the candy aisle’s siren song. So, what if you didn’t have to?
We know that telling you to eat candy probably isn’t the advice you expected from us this month. But, since it is Valentine’s Day, and chocolate is everywhere, we thought we’d give you the thumbs up regarding dark chocolate and its potential health benefits. Sweet, right?
Dark chocolate is the variety that has the largest amount of cocoa solids, which means it contains antioxidants and minerals (like zinc and magnesium). Dark chocolate can lower blood pressure, reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
In fact, a recent study published in Heart found that eating 45g of dark chocolate per week (about the size of one candy bar) lowered heart disease risk by 11%. Doesn’t that sound like a good excuse to enjoy some chocolate—and maybe to share some with the one you love?
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Hit the candy aisle! Make sure you stick to dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa (some examples include Dove, Lindt and the Ghirardelli Intense line). And, remember, a little goes a long way—so we really hope you enjoy it, but not too much.