The attitude towards chocolate is one of the most controversial. Some consider it almost a panacea, others insist that chocolate is harmful. And the truth, as always, is somewhere in between.
In any case, this is exactly what the latest studies of American scientists from the Icahn School of Medicine claim. Research findings suggest that occasional chocolate consumption may be beneficial for heart health.
In a study of 575000 people, experts found that moderate consumption of chocolate – up to three bars a month – reduced the risk of developing heart failure by 13%. Researchers believe that natural compounds in chocolate called flavonoids improve blood vessel health.
The main thing is moderation
Nevertheless, experts insist on moderation – if you absorb chocolate without knowing the measure, your health will not improve, and the question of where to put those extra pounds will become very acute. So, daily consumption of chocolate increases the likelihood of heart failure by 17%.
But if you consume chocolate in a dose and give preference to varieties with a high content of cocoa beans, then the benefits of it are undeniable.
How it works
Scientists consider chocolate to be an important source of flavonoids, which are linked to reducing inflammation and raising good cholesterol, which are beneficial for heart health. In addition, flavonoids stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels and improves blood circulation.
Which chocolate is the healthiest
According to experts, dark chocolate is the healthiest because it contains a large amount of flavonoids and the least amount of sugar.