Over the years, numerous studies have shown that cocoa flavanols can lower blood pressure, boost brain function and improve immune and cardiovascular health.
BUT, you won't be surprised to hear that this doesn't apply to all chocolate, nor does it mean (sadly) that you can eat chocolate all day every day and only reap the benefits. Cacao is naturally packed with antioxidants, so chocolate that contains a higher percentage of cocoa is the most beneficial; the purer and darker the chocolate, the greater the health benefits.
Heart Health: Research indicates that it's the flavonoids in cocoa that benefit your heart. These chemicals help product nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to relax, lowering blood pressure as a result.
Brain Benefits: Studies also suggest that chocolate stimulates neural activity in areas of the brain associated with pleasure and reward, which in turn reduces stress and improves your mood.
Digestive Perks: It's possible that chocolate can act like a prebiotic, a type of fibre that encourages the growth of good bacteria in the gut. The more of these 'good' microbes there are, the better your body is able to absorb nutrients.
Glowing Skin: Finally, dark chocolate contains a number of vitamins and minerals, including copper, iron, magnesium and manganese, all of which are great for your skin, hair and nails, so you can look as good as the chocolate you eat.
Want to try it for yourself? Take a look at our dark chocolate bars, all with 70% minimum cocoa solids.