Wait a second…the health benefits of chocolate. Yep, you heard that right; despite the sugar and caffeine content, both have their own unique advantages when it comes to our health. Let’s unwrap the facts!
Pre-deliciousness disclaimer:
Before we begin our delectable debate between milk and dark chocolate, it’s important to note that some health conditions may not allow for the consumption of chocolate. Some may require careful moderation due to its sugar content. For example, individuals with diabetes need should be mindful of their sugar intake, and chocolate—especially milk chocolate—can be high in sugar. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any health conditions that could be affected by chocolate consumption.
Milk chocolate: The sweet side of wellness.
Milk chocolate, often criticized for its sugar content, still may offer some health benefits. It contains antioxidants, though in smaller amounts compared to dark chocolate. These antioxidants, known as flavonoids, help protect our cells from damage. Additionally, milk chocolate is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth (after thoroughly brushing them of course).
Research also shows a nod to heart health. According to Consumer Report, a study from the University of Aberdeen found that individuals who consumed the most chocolate (primarily milk chocolate) over an average of 11.3 years had a lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke than those who consumed very little to no chocolate.
In addition, chocolate provides small amounts of essential nutrients like iron, potassium, and zinc. While it shouldn’t be your primary source of these nutrients, it may be reassuring to know it offers some nutritional value, this Valentine’s Day.
Dark chocolate: Sometimes bitter is better.
Dark chocolate is often considered the healthier option due to its higher content of antioxidants, fiber and minerals. These nutrients can contribute to overall health and reduce the risk of heart disease. One study even suggests dark chocolate my make the body more sensitive to insulin, which could actually lower the risk of diabetes.
Dark chocolate gets your taste buds celebrating and – as Cleveland Clinic points out – it can also get your blood flowing, due to the flavonoids in dark chocolate, which help relax blood vessels and enhance circulation.
Delicious, dairy-free dark chocolate seems to have many other healthy attributes; everything from skin benefits to even a possible increase in our sunny disposition. That’s right; research has shown that consuming recommended amounts of dark chocolate can even improve our mood. So, if you’re looking for a boost in morale, dark chocolate might be your go-to.
What about white chocolate?
Okay, there’s always one in every group who prefers white chocolate. Why? Well, we’re not sure. However, in our quest to uncover the health benefits of chocolate, we’ve determined white chocolate is neither chocolate nor healthy. In fact, it’s almost entirely made of sugar and fat. Should you choose to forgo milk or dark chocolate for the white variety, please keep in mind that it offers very little health benefits, if any.
Like choosing a valentine, your choice of chocolate is yours, and yours alone.
Ultimately, the choice between milk and dark chocolate depends on your personal preference. If you enjoy the creamy sweetness of milk chocolate, savor it in moderation and appreciate the calcium and antioxidants it provides. If you prefer the rich, intense flavor of dark chocolate, you might just benefit from its heart health-promoting attributes. Either way, it’s important to indulge responsibly.
