Everyone likes to treat themselves to a piece of chocolate from time to time, but could choosing a specific kind be good for you? Dark chocolate has long been hailed as the ‘healthiest’ variety of chocolate, but diving into the science behind it can help reveal the truth behind this.
Dark chocolate typically contains a higher percentage of cocoa and a lower sugar content than conventional milk chocolate, making it more appealing to health-conscious buyers. Specifically, it is the cocoa found in chocolate that has been linked to a range of health benefits.
Cocoa is rich in compounds like flavanols and polyphenols, plant-based chemicals known for their antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help neutralise free radicals — highly reactive molecules that can damage DNA and other cellular components. Over time, this stress can contribute to diseases like heart disease, cancer, and dementia.
Flavanols may also help prevent the development of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, which affect brain function over time, as well as improve cognitive performance. They support the growth of new neurons, mainly in brain regions involved in learning and memory. So maybe it’s time to bring some chocolate to your next study session.
It is worth noting that many of these beneficial compounds aren’t exclusive to dark chocolate but are also present in a wide range of fruits and leafy green vegetables. So, while indulging in dark chocolate may have some perks, remember that moderation, and a balanced diet, are key to reaping the rewards.
Despite these benefits, the processing of cocoa into chocolate leads to a reduction in some of its beneficial compounds, as calorie-dense ingredients like sugar, milk, and cocoa butter tend to be added. In addition, the research that reveals benefits may not reflect the cacao content found in store-bought chocolate. For instance, government standards of what may be labelled as “dark chocolate” vary by country — in the UK, chocolate with only 35 per cent cocoa solids is considered dark. Since chocolate manufacturers don’t disclose flavanol levels, it’s hard to know how much dark chocolate you’d need to match the results seen in studies — and your wallet might not thank you for it.
Photo by Monika Grabkowska on Unsplash