Are you a chocolate lover? Check out my recent article in Australian Good Food Guide

I was interviewed recently by Australian Good Food Guide, discussing the health benefits of CHOCOLATE.

I mean who doesn't love chocolate, and yes there are some surprising health benefits too (but don't go eating that whole block of cadbury chocolate yet).

You can read the full article here, but I thought I would dive a bit deeper into some of the amazing health benefits chocolate has! Now unfortunately you wont get these benefits from milk chocolate, so save that for your cheat days.

While chocolate is often seen as a guilty pleasure, recent research suggests that, in moderation, it can have significant health benefits—especially dark chocolate. Here's a closer look at how indulging in this treat might not just be satisfying for the taste buds but also beneficial for our bodies.

Can Chocolate Combat Diabetes and Heart Disease?

Dark chocolate has shown to have a protective role against certain health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. This is largely due to the presence of flavonoids in dark chocolate, which have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and help balance blood sugar levels—key factors in the development and management of diabetes.

The high antioxidant content in chocolate is also great for heart health. It works by promoting healthy blood circulation and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are critical factors in the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases.

Improving Eyesight and Gut Health

Dark chocolate's benefits extend beyond heart and blood sugar health. The flavonoids found in dark chocolate have also been linked to promoting eye health and protecting against age-related vision problems. This is likely due to their ability to improve blood flow to the eye area and reduce oxidative stress.

Cocoa and cacao both hav prebiotic properties, which can support beneficial gut bacteria. Feeding our microbiome with these prebiotics is crucial; without adequate nourishment, our gut health can deteriorate, affecting overall health and wellbeing. So make sure you pick dark chocolate! The darker the better. 

Boosting Brain Function and Alertness

Thanks to compounds like caffeine and theobromine, dark chocolate can help increase alertness and improve focus. These mild stimulants have a positive effect on cognitive function and may enhance mental performance in the short term. However, it's worth noting that consuming chocolate in the evening might lead to restlessness and sleep issues for some individuals.

Mood Enhancement Through Chocolate

One of the most cherished benefits of chocolate is its ability to enhance mood. Chocolate impacts neurotransmitter activity in the brain, including the release of endorphins, known as the "feel-good" chemicals. It supports dopamine production, essential for motivation, and is rich in tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, our happiness hormone. Chocolate also contains anandamide, sometimes referred to as the bliss hormone, further supporting mood and dopamine production.

Other Health Benefits

Chocolate's high levels of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds make it beneficial for skin health, particularly in combating skin ageing. It has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke, improve skin condition, and enhance exercise performance thanks to its potential nitric oxide-boosting properties.

Choosing the Right Chocolate

However, not all chocolates are created equal. The health benefits mentioned are primarily associated with high-quality, low-sugar, cocoa-rich dark chocolate. Highly processed chocolates high in sugar won't offer the same health advantages. In moderation, just a small amount of dark chocolate is enough to enjoy its myriad benefits. Adding cacao to your smoothies or blending through yoghurt are other healthy way you can get the benefits of chocolate without the guilt.