Most people really don't need reasons to eat chocolate, other than it's delicious! But as it turns out, certain kinds of the sweet snack–specifically dark chocolate–are actually good for your mental and physical well-being. Don't believe me? Below, check out five great health reasons to eat more chocolate (as if you needed any!):
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It can actually help your diet. A little bit of dark chocolate can help satisfy any sweet tooth cravings, without undoing any healthy practices. Plus, natural cocoa can actually limit the number of calories you take it because it stops certain digestive enzymes from taking action, preventing fats from being absorbed.
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It fights disease. The flavonoids in dark chocolate are also linked to reduced insulin resistance and improved glucose regulation (which can help fight type 2 diabetes), as well as reduced inflammation.
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It's good for your heart. Studies have found that women who ate one or two ounces of chocolate a week had a 32 percent lower risk of heart failure than women who ate no chocolate. Why? The compounds in the cocoa help activate nitric oxide, a substance that helps relax blood vessels.
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It improves your vision. Researchers found that the antioxidants present in dark chocolate can help people distinguish items better and improve their sight.
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It's an instant mood-booster. After all, who doesn't love chocolate?!
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