Chocolate is often seen as the ultimate comfort food. Its rich taste and delightful texture make it a treat for many, especially around special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Plus, there’s some buzz around the idea that chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, has health benefits.
So, how beneficial is chocolate for our health? Let’s break it down according to recent studies.
What Research Shows
- Better heart health: Dark chocolate can help improve heart function and lower blood pressure.
- Blood sugar control: It may assist in managing blood sugar levels, potentially lowering the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
- Mood enhancement: Eating chocolate can boost your mood and improve brain function.
However, keep in mind that not all studies found the same results. Some research used cocoa in supplement form, which is more concentrated than regular chocolate.
The Key to Chocolate’s Health Benefits
The real source of chocolate’s goodness comes from cacao beans. They’re rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, not all chocolate is created equal.
To maximize the health benefits, consider these tips:
- High cocoa content: Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. If the label doesn’t specify, it’s probably lower.
- Minimal processing: Avoid chocolate that has undergone heavy processing, as this can strip away beneficial compounds. Look for brands that mention low heat roasting.
- Simple ingredients: Opt for chocolates with fewer additives. Ideally, it should contain just chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, a bit of sugar, and sea salt.
Good Chocolate Brands
Some brands focus on high-quality chocolate with minimal processing. Here are a few I recommend: Alter Eco, Hu, and Pascha. If you’re keeping an eye on carbs and sugar, check out ChocZero and Lily’s for lower-sugar options.
The Bottom Line
This Valentine’s Day, when you choose chocolate, prioritize quality over quantity. Enjoying a good piece of chocolate can be both a treat and a way to gain some potential health benefits.
Recipe: Low Carb Double Dark Chocolate Cookies
This easy recipe is gluten-free and uses plant-based sweeteners. Here’s what you need to make 16 cookies:
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granular Swerve
- 1/4 cup allulose syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons finely ground almond flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 cup stevia-sweetened dark-style chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Start by whisking the egg whites, Swerve, allulose syrup, and vanilla together until frothy, for about 1.5 to 2 minutes. In another bowl, mix the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Combine both mixtures and fold in half of the chocolate chips.
Roll the dough into balls and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet. Roll the dough into balls, press them slightly, and sprinkle with sea salt if you’d like. Bake for 9-10 minutes until they’re set on the edges. Let them cool on the sheet for about 15 minutes.
Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for about a week. Each cookie contains approximately 80 calories and only a small amount of sugar, making them a delicious treat that fits into a healthier lifestyle.
Enjoy your chocolate and treat yourself wisely, knowing you’re indulging with some potential health perks!
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