THE VITAL ROLE GOOD CHOCOLATE PLAYS IN EXCEPTIONAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Our social conditioning can often make us feel like chocolate is a 'bad' food choice. However, it is often the case that when you crave chocolate our body is actually asking you for the biochemical medicine it needs to get back into balance.
In particular, dark chocolate with a high cocoa content - has a range of health benefits, particularly when consumed in moderation.
Here are some of its key benefits:
Rich in Antioxidants: Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Heart Health: Studies suggest that moderate consumption of dark chocolate may help improve heart health by increasing blood flow, reducing the risk of heart disease, and lowering blood pressure.
Improved Cholesterol Levels: Some research indicates that dark chocolate can raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels and improve overall cholesterol profile.
Better Mood: Chocolate contains compounds like theobromine and phenylethylamine (PEA). PEA is a natural compound found in chocolate that is believed to stimulate the release of dopamine in the brain, enhancing mood and feelings of well-being.
Brain Function: The flavonoids in chocolate may also improve brain function by increasing blood flow to the brain, which could enhance cognitive function, memory, and attention span.
Weight Management: Despite its reputation, dark chocolate can be a part of a healthy diet and may even help with weight management by reducing cravings and increasing feelings of fullness.
Remember, the key is moderation and opting for organic dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content to maximise the health benefits while minimising added sugars and fats. You can also try organic cacao nibs for an unadulterated and completely sugar free chocolate pleasure.
As you can see, far from being a “bad” food choice, good quality dark chocolate can be vital for optimal mental, physical and emotional balance and there is definitely a guilt free place for it in every diet.
If you find yourself reaching for chocolate and sugary treats more than you would like and feel like it's taking you further from your goals rather than closer to them, it might be time to book in for a balance. Head over to our booking page, get back on track and book your next balance today to recalibrate your mind body and emotions.