Dark Chocolate Health Benefits

My absolute favorite prescription from my Menopause Specialist, that I've absolutely crushed, was to eat 1 square of dark chocolate every day.

It has to be 70% cacao or greater.  

Ideally eaten in the middle of the afternoon, especially if you have a mid-afternoon slump.

I brought it up with her because it’s one of the main things that helps me combat sugar cravings. 

She recommended I do it DAILY for some of the other health benefits.

Dark Chocolate can help your:
·         Heart Health
·         Brain Health
·         Mental Health
·         Gut Health

Chocolate is made from cacao beans that are roasted at high heat into cocoa.

Cacao beans are considered a SUPERFOOD with over 300 beneficial compounds that can boost your mood, energy, and focus.

They contain Flavanols & Antioxidants which can improve your brain & cardiovascular function-regulating blood pressure, reducing risk of clotting & inflammation, and improving circulation & good cholesterol levels.

They're packed full of fiber & minerals.

1 ounce dark chocolate = 64 mg of Magnesium which supports sleep, mood, blood sugar stabilization, and your bone & heart health. 

It can also help reduce stress by increasing your serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine levels.

>>The higher the cacao content in your chocolate bar, the more likely you're getting these health benefits<<

THE DARK CHOCOLATE RX: Eat 1 ounce of dark chocolate (70% cacao or greater) every day.

SPICE IT UP: Add a handful of pecans or almonds if you need a protein snack that’s super satisfying.

PRO TIP: Let It Melt In Your Mouth- slow down and let each bite of chocolate melt in your mouth to help boost the relaxation benefits. SAVOR. EVERY. BITE.
 
CHOCOLATE NOTES: 

If all you’ve ever eaten is milk chocolate, you may have to work your way up to 70% cacao. The darker you go, the less sweetness & more intense the flavor.  

>>Watch for added sugars because this is one way manufacturers get around the bitterness of higher cacao levels<<

If you’re sensitive or need to limit your caffeine intake, know that there is caffeine in chocolate. Dark chocolate has more than milk chocolate. Depending on the amount of cacao in it, the caffeine can range from 12-30 mg per ounce of chocolate. You may want to avoid eating it too close to bedtime.

Chocolate can help with PMS symptoms. I used to crave it at certain times each month.

Finally, Chocolate can trigger migraines in some people.

Listen to your body. 
 
It might take a little exploring to find your happy level of cacao intensity, frequency, & favorite brand.

Honestly, some dark chocolate bars taste like dirt to me.

That's no fun. 

You may not tolerate 70% cacao daily.

No biggie!

Don't torture yourself.

Remember we want the health benefits AND it to be a pleasurable experience.

Find your F-L-A-V-O-R.

EnJOY!

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