How Flavonoids In Dark Chocolate Have Been Shows To Increase Energy
When you’re feeling low on energy, chances are you’ll reach for some chocolate to give you a boost. Unfortunately, milk chocolate won’t be of much help, since high levels of sugar it contains can only give you an instant burst of energy. The sweetened version of chocolate might make you feel perky for a short period of time, but unfortunately, this short feeling of vigor is always followed by an energy-draining crash. However, real, dark chocolate is a great high-energy snack, thanks to high levels of flavonoids that will stir you up, keep you in a good mood, and allow you to indulge your sweet tooth without having to consume ingredients that are bad for your health.
What Are Flavonoids?
Flavonoids are potent antioxidants, which means they fight off free radicals and prevent oxidation of other molecules in your body. Basically, flavonoids help minimize and prevent the damage from stress, aging and lack of nutrients. There are over 4,000 identified types of flavonoids, and chocolate contains flavonoids known as flavanols and flavonols, in high levels. But, although dark chocolate is a good source of flavonoids, not all dark chocolates available on the market have the same quality and, therefore, levels of antioxidants.
To make sure your dark chocolate of choice isn’t just a guilty pleasure, but rather an energizing elixir, look for chocolate that contains 35%(or more) cocoa solids or natural unsweetened cocoa powder listed in the ingredients. The higher percent of the cocoa solids in the chocolate, the more powerful the benefits are- and, trust me, you’ll want to experience them.
Immediate Benefits of Flavonoids in Dark Chocolate
Even since the ancient times, dark chocolate was being renowned because of its fatigue-fighting and revitalizing properties. In modern times, when you think about chocolate, the sweetened, milk version first comes to mind. This type of chocolate contains an insignificant percent of cocoa solids, and in some cases none, so the levels of flavonoids in it are almost nonexistent, not to mention the negative impact of sugar on both your health and energy levels. In order to fully experience the benefits of potent flavonoids, you’ll have to settle for dark chocolate.
However, you don’t need the sugary dessert to keep you in a good mood, contrary to the popular belief. Studies have shown that dark chocolate stimulates your brain and increases levels of endorphin and serotonin in your body, neurotransmitters responsible for feeling of happiness. Recommended dose of just one ounce of dark chocolate per day can help lift your mood and help fight the gloom.
In addition to brightening your mood, dark chocolate’s high level of flavonoids will help you feel more alert and boost your energy. Dark chocolate is commonly referred to as “brain food” and for a good reason. According to studies, eating dark chocolate will help you improve your cognitive function and deter mental decline, and by stimulating blood flow to your brain, flavonoids will actually influence your ability to focus and concentrate instantly. A couple of bites can help you clarify your thoughts and feel more alert, and unlike the effects of sugar in milk chocolate, these actually last.
And, in the end, if you need a little pick-me-up, dark chocolate is a great way to instantly improve your energy. Instead of opting for a short sugar-high that depletes your energy quickly afterward, choose dark, flavonoid-rich, chocolate as an energy booster. It will sustain you and have a prolonged effect on your energy levels, making you feel revitalized and invigorated throughout the day.
Impact on Overall Health
Flavonoids in dark chocolate aren’t just a great way to instantly boost your energy and feel more focused and happier. There’s been a lot of studies that proved that dark chocolate plays an important role in preventing diseases and improving our health. From lowering risks for cardiovascular illness, decreasing hypertension and improving your brain function, dark chocolate is beneficial all around. With an immediate effect that will serve as a great way to fight off the lethargy and fatigue, you’ll also guard your body against disease in the long run. Who could have said that nibbling on a piece of dark chocolate could do you a world of good?
