You love chocolate, I love chocolate, we all love chocolates. We have hardly seen anybody cribbing over having an OD of chocolate. Like, seriously?
While most of us need a reason to bite onto that comfort bar, let’s take a moment to remind you that the week-long Valentine’s affair has already kicked in. Hold on, there’s a solid connection here!
Since we’re celebrating the third day on the Valentine week’s calendar, which is the chocolate day—it’s time to go a little unique this time.
How, you ask? Well, before you think of pampering your partner with truck loads of chocolate bars, we suggest you to treat yourself with them to feel all happy and pumped.
Trust us, ladies! There is absolutely nothing more blissful and satisfying than showering yourself with unadulterated love.
Yes, chocolates can legit make you feel happy and calm
Well, even science agrees. According to a 2013 study, published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, consuming chocolate could help improve your mood to a great extent and further make you feel content and calmer. Howzzat, now?
The flavonols present in chocolate are said to be the reason behind that ‘mood-enhancing’ effect. The study also reveals that it’s the serotonin present in dark chocolate that acts as an antidepressant to help elevate mood.
But wait, don’t go overboard with them either
While milk chocolates are sinfully delicious, the ever-so-comforting flavor can mess around with your health as well, especially if you are on a weight loss or fitness spree.
So, we introduce you to a healthier cousin of milk chocolates—dark chocolates.
There is a simple rule associated with dark chocolates—darker the chocolate, the less sugar it will contain.
The nutrient profile of dark chocolate is precisely what makes it a superfood in the health and nutrition circuit.
As per the United States Department of Agriculture, a 100 gram bar of dark chocolate gives you 70-85% cocoa, 8 grams of protein and 11 grams of fibre. Since cocoa seeds are one of the best sources of antioxidants, they help in benefiting the heart health to a significant extent.
Also, read: Here’s all the lowdown you need on the latest diet craze sirtfood diet
If that still isn’t enough to convince you to treat yourself with a dark chocolate bar this Chocolate Day, then here are two more solid reasons to make you believe otherwise.
Helps improve cognitive function
According to a 2015 study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, cocoa solids contain flavonols that not only help in improving blood flow in the body but also improve cognitive function.
Promotes weight loss too
Yes, you read that right. The flavonoids present in dark chocolate can prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels and discourage you from overeating, as per a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry.
So ladies, this Chocolate Day, pamper yourself with a dark chocolate hamper and keep chomping on it every now and then, but in moderation, of course.
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