Dark Chocolate Benefits For Weight Loss and Side Effects

Do you know about the origin of dark chocolates and what are the dark chocolate benefits? It has a fascinating history of 4000 years ago. It all began with the turning of cacao seeds into chocolate by an ancient civilization in Mexico. The cacao plant is rich in minerals and antioxidants. It comes from Mexico and South America. During colonization, it travelled to Spain. Later it was introduced to markets and other countries. The era of dark chocolate started in the 20th century, and the health benefits also resulted in gaining more popularity. Thanks to various brands that made chocolates easily accessible. 

Stay tuned to the blog to explore chocolate benefits and tasty recipes.  

​​Nutritional Value of Dark Chocolate 

Find below the nutritional value of 100 grams of dark chocolate with 70-85% cacao content. 

• Calories – 604 
• Fat – 43.06g 
• Sugar – 24.23g 
• Protein- 7.87g 
• Dietary fiber-11.00g 
• Iron-12.02mg 
• Carbohydrates-46.36g 
• Zinc-3.34mg 
• Magnesium-230.00mg

Nutritional Facts about Dark Chocolate 

Among all the chocolates, dark chocolate is considered the healthier one. It is a rich source of antioxidants, minerals and flavonoids. The nutritional properties help to prevent the growth of diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease and Alzheimer's. The antioxidant content helps to decrease inflammation and protects the cells from damage.  

To enjoy dark chocolate benefits, one must try to have dark chocolate containing 70% cacao. 

It is a healthy after-dinner treat. Although, try to stay within the daily amount. Eating more than the daily limit may increase your body weight, cause nausea and sleeplessness, and put you at cardiovascular risk.

Dark Chocolate Benefits 

Let us check the benefits of eating dark chocolate.

​​Increases Brain Function

According to studies eating dark chocolate increases brain functions, and the flavonoid presence in cacao increases the blood flow to the brain in young adults. Adults having dark chocolates may notice improved memory.[1] In older adults, flavonoid helps to maintain cognitive function and reduces the risk of dementia. It also reduces the risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Fight Against Diabetes

The research suggests eating 48 g of 70% dark chocolate each day reduces insulin resistance and may lower fasting glucose levels. The presence of polyphenols promotes insulin resistance and helps to control blood sugar for people having Type 2 diabetes. [2]

Treats Depression

A ​study implies eating dark chocolates reduces the risk of depression [3]. Consuming dark chocolate (24 grams) has an antidepressant effect on people who eat it daily.

Protects Skin

Dark chocolate consists of antioxidants, iron, calcium, copper, vitamin, magnesium and zinc-rich foods that help to protect the skin from UV rays. The other dark chocolate benefits for the skin include collagen production that helps to slow skin ​ageing.

Prevents Cell Damage

The antioxidant properties of dark chocolate prevent the free radical effect and protect the cell from damage.

Regulate blood pressure

A ​study conducted on a group of participants shows that dark chocolate affects blood pressure regulation compared to white chocolate.

Prevents Cardiovascular disease

The factors like blood pressure and cholesterol increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The presence of flavonoids helps to keep heart health in check.

Bone Health

Magnesium Rich Foods benefit bone health and maintain normal daily function. The magnesium and antioxidants in dark chocolate benefit bone health.

Boost Sexual Activity

The benefits of dark chocolate for men include increased sexual stamina. It boosts energy so that you can last longer in bed.

Weight Loss

Consumption of dark chocolate at a moderate level promotes weight loss.

Dark Chocolate Benefits in Weight Loss

Here are a few reasons to believe that dark chocolate for weight loss is one of the best foods you can consume: 

Eliminates or curbs ​cravings

Consuming dark chocolates lowers the urge for salty and sweet foods. Experts suggest having dark chocolate 20 min before and five minutes after dinner and lunch cuts appetite to fifty per cent. 

Promotes Exercising

The presence of magnesium and antioxidants relieves workout pain and promotes exercise. 

Improves metabolism

Dark chocolate speeds up metabolism and burns calories quickly. 

Enhance mood

Mood swings trigger overeating. Having a small number of dark chocolates may help to boost your mood. 

Improves insulin sensitivity

The healthy fats present in dark chocolate prevents insulin spike. 

Other protein-rich food like beans and soy helps with weight loss. 

Side Effects of Dark Chocolate 

Along with dark chocolate benefits, there are few side effects if consumed in high amounts. 

• Too much dark chocolate may result in constipation, nausea, and stomach pain due to the presence of high ​fibre 
• People who are sensitive to caffeine may experience allergic reactions 
• Excessive eating of dark chocolates may also result in weight gain 

Healthy Dark Chocolate Recipes

1. Dark Chocolate with Banana 

Ingredients:

• Dark chocolate – 200 gm 
• Banana – 300 gm 

Method:

1. Melt the dark chocolate and keep it aside 
2. Slice the banana and blend smoothly 
3. Mix with melted chocolate 
4. Take a 5-inch pan and place wrapping paper to add the mix 
5. Keep in the freezer for 2-4 hours 
6. It is now ready to serve 

2. Dark chocolate smoothie 

Ingredients: 

• Dark chocolate – 1 square 
• Banana – 1 
• Water – 1 cup 
• Cashewnuts-4 
• Flax seeds – 1 tbsp 
• Chia seeds – 1 tbsp 
• Cinnamon powder – ½ tbsp 

Method:

1. Blend all the ingredients in a blender and make it ready to serve.

If ​​you are looking for a general physician's advice on whether or not you should have dark chocolate or if you want to know more about dark chocolate benefits, try Bajaj Finserv Health. Here, you can get a doctor consultation without the burden of a physical visit. Start your day with dark chocolate to have a chocolaty day.