Chocolate seems like a naughty indulgence, so the fact that it is loaded with health benefits seems almost too good to be true! Not all chocolates are created equal, though. When choosing cocoa, opt for natural cocoa powder rather than alkalized, which takes away the natural health benefits. Dark chocolate, especially with a high cacao percentage, is the healthiest with the least amount of fat and sugar. Chocolate is good for you in moderation, so go ahead and treat yourself.
Heart-health benefits. Cocoa is loaded with flavonoids, which cause blood vessels to widen and relax. This helps reduce high blood pressure. The antioxidants found in dark chocolate have been shown to lower risks of strokes, heart failure, and hardened arteries as well.
Antioxidant benefits. Dark chocolate is a powerful antioxidant, but milk chocolate or chocolate eaten with milk is not. Milk can hinder the absorption of the antioxidants. Consuming dark chocolate in moderation can destroy free radicals that can play a part in certain illnesses, including heart disease.
Improves cholesterol. Dark chocolate in particular can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and boost good cholesterol (HDL).
Mood booster. Experiencing a good piece of chocolate not only makes your taste buds happy, but it has been shown in clinical studies to actually boost your mood and make you happier.
Vision benefits. Studies have found that eating dark chocolate, which is highest in flavonoids, improves vision.
Good for your diet. Eating dark chocolate in moderation every day is good for your diet and won’t make you gain weight. It can also help you stay on track by curbing your sweet tooth for other, less-healthful, treats. v
Chocolate Fondue
Ingredients:
1 lb. bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 cups heavy cream or soy creamer (for pareve)
1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
pinch of salt
Dipping options: pretzels, biscotti, cubes of sponge cake, strawberries, other fruits
Directions:
Bring a half-filled pot of water to a boil and place a medium glass bowl on top. Lower the flame so water is just simmering. Place chocolate, cream, vanilla, and salt in bowl and stir every 20 seconds until melted, about 1–2 minutes. Pour chocolate mixture into a serving bowl or on top of a tabletop burner and serve with dipping options.
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