Chocolates are sugary and processed foods and they have never been a part of anyone’s diet regime.
However, dark chocolates can play a significant role in keeping a person fit and healthy. Dark chocolates are effective stress relievers.
They are rich in cocoa which is the apex content for benefiting one’s health and well-being.
It is advised for weight loss seekers to consume dark chocolates as they have a high percentage of cocoa and lack products like milk solids and glucose.
Let’s have a detailed look on how dark chocolates can help us in shedding those extra pounds:
1. Dark chocolates can prevent food cravings
Sugary substances are eliminated from most of the dietary regimes; however, it is necessary to indulge a bit in your cravings to curb them for long periods. Eating a piece or two of dark chocolate won’t act as an obstacle to your weight loss process.
Dark chocolate reduces your cravings as it controls the excessive production of ghrelin, a hormone which accelerates hunger pangs.
2. Dark chocolate helps in reducing blood sugar levels
Dark chocolate comprises of plant-based nutrients which are called Flavanols. Flavanols play an active role in eliminating the body’s blood sugar levels, leading to significant cutting down of fat. However, too much of anything is bad so make it a point to consume dark chocolate in controlled amounts.
3. Dark chocolate reduces the appetite
The adequate amount of fibrous content in dark chocolate helps to keep you feeling satisfied thereby reducing the feelings of hunger. One bar of 70% dark chocolate which weighs 3.5 ounces comprises 16% of your regular food intake. Although eatables like oatmeal and broccoli are considered as the best sources of fiber, dark chocolate is the best sweetmeat option when it comes to staying fit and shapely.
4. Keeps your stress levels in check
Increased stress can also cause significant weight gain. Excessive stress can accelerate your cortisol levels which results in an increased appetite as you start consuming an excessive amount of food to control your fluctuating emotions. Dark chocolate releases serotonin and endorphins inside your brain which helps in relaxing and calming you.
5. Dark chocolate diminishes inflammation
When your body is inflamed, disturbances at the cellular level occur. Chronic inflammation does not only lead to hazardous health problems like cancer, diabetes, or heart disease but it also impairs the functioning of metabolic regulation. As dark chocolate contains flavanols, nibbling it in small amounts can help in controlling inflammation due to the anti-inflammatory properties of flavanols.
6. Dark chocolates can encourage you to exercise
Consumption of dark chocolates will make your body feel energized which will motivate you to be active. You will feel less tired and experience a reduced amount of pain post workouts. The ‘feel good’ hormones secreted by the consumption of dark chocolate will push you to accomplish your weight loss goals.
