Give the Gift of Chocolate
by Jodi MacKinnon (QFG)

Enjoy Amazing Benefits with Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is the perfect gift to give the chocolate lover in your life. Made from the roasted  beans of the cacao tree, this decadent, but also highly beneficial comfort food is considered a  super food. It has been around for over 3,000 years, originating in central and south America as  a drink.  

For chocolate to have any benefits, it must be made up of at least 60% cocoa. The  recommended daily dose is 30 to 60 grams. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids. Flavonoids are  found in many health foods and they are known to be powerful antioxidants, which can fight off  cancerous cells, as well as other diseases.  

We may not think of such a decadent treat having any health benefits, but over the years,  studies have shown that a little dark chocolate in our diet can go along way. 

Many of us know about diabetes or know someone with the condition. By eating dark chocolate, you can promote and lower insulin resistance.

 

It’s no joke. Eating this rich bold treat has been proven to stimulate neural activity, the area of  your brain that are associated with rewards and pleasure. It’s also shown to be effective in  boosting memory, focus and mood.

One neat thing about dark chocolate is that it can improve your mood. It has the same boosting  chemicals that our bodies make, including tryptophan and   serotonin. Bring on more happy days – eat dark chocolate. 

Dark chocolate can do wonders for inflammation. While having some inflammation can help  fight disease, too much inflammation in the body can do all sorts of damage. Too much  inflammation can lead to headaches, sore muscles, insomnia, constant fatigue and more. 

Fun Facts about Dark Chocolate

  • Dark chocolate with high cocoa content is filled with epicatechin, which has been known  to keep cholesterol from blocking up the blood vessels and reduce blood clots. 
  • The first chocolate bar was created in 1910. 
  • February 1st is National Dark Chocolate Day. 
  • Eating dark chocolate may also lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. 
Jodi MacKinnon (QFG) [MACJOD]

About Jodi MacKinnon (QFG)

Qualifirst’s COO, Jodi loves cooking and baking, taking raw ingredients and turning them into something that is absolutely delicious, with just the right flavour balance, is one of her favourite pastimes.


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