Chocolate offers health benefits

Chocolate contains higher levels of health-promoting flavonoids than apples or orange juice, a recent study shows.

Flavonoids are important because they contain antioxidants that block the action of harmful free radicals. Free radicals are produced when oxygen burns glucose in cells to release energy. Unchecked, free radicals damage cell components like DNA and proteins, setting the scene for heart disease, cancer, and other health problems.

Antioxidants also help prevent blood clots and inflammation.

While eating fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended because they contain antioxidants, scientists also have been looking at chocolate as a source of antioxidants. One study found that chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants called catechins. The antioxidant power of a 50 gram bar of chocolate is equivalent to two glasses of red wine, four cups of tea, six apples, or 15 glasses of orange juice, the study showed. It also found that the chocolate antioxidants are well absorbed by the body, and remain active.

The darker types of chocolate are best, since they have less sugar.

Here is additional information on the health benefits of chocolate:

“Dark Chocolate Good for Heart Health” – HealthNews-Stat

“Antioxidants: Preventing Diseases, Naturally” – Mayo Clinic

“Chocolate Lowers Blood Pressure: Dark Chocolate, Other Cocoa-Rich Foods May Lower Blood Pressure Better Than Tea” – MedicineNet

“Boosting Brain Power With Chocolate” – BioMedicine