Dark Chocolate

No, there’s nothing wrong with your eyesight. Dark chocolate, the rich and decadent dessert favorite, has made our list of 50 superfoods! That doesn’t mean you should run out and gorge yourself, however. Everything in moderation, of course. But, you’ll be happy to know that studies have shown that eating a daily serving of dark chocolate (100 calories, or fewer) can actually have some pretty amazing health benefits. Stay away from milk or white chocolate, though. Those varieties are loaded with extra sugar and do not contain the same level of healthy antioxidants. Here are 3 reasons why you should love dark chocolate:

3 REASONS WHY IT’S OKAY TO LOVE DARK CHOCOLATE:

1.  An Arsenal of Antioxidants

Loaded with antioxidants, dark chocolate, can help fight against free radicals. Those are the same free radicals that can cause cell damage, certain cancers, and speed up the aging process.

2.  Heart and Brain Health

Dark chocolate can help increase the flow of blood to the brain, so it’s good for cognitive function. It also includes phenylethylamine, or PEA, a chemical that encourages your brain to release endorphins, which will make you happier.

 3.  Additional Health Benefits

Believe it or not, dark chocolate can do even more for your health. It has been shown to help regulate blood sugar because it works to reduce insulin resistance and won’t cause large spikes in blood sugar. It also contains high concentrations of copper, potassium, magnesium, and iron to prevent against stroke, cardiovascular disease, anemia, and high blood pressure.