Benefits — it’s not just about vegetables, grains, and fish. Studies show that sweets can also serve as prebiotics, supporting our body.
One of the key principles of healthy eating is variety. Your table should include vegetables, fruits, meat, grains, and other products. Nutritionists emphasize that food should not be divided into 'bad' and 'good'. You can enjoy everything if you maintain moderation and remember physical activity, reports Doctorpiter.
Australian researchers conducted an experiment that confirmed that dark chocolate can and should be added to the daily diet!
Experts studied the eating habits of healthy individuals and their medical data. It turned out that the diversity and quantity of gut bacteria increased when participants consumed chocolate with 85% cocoa content.
“This is likely related to the fact that cocoa acts as a prebiotic, which is not digested until it reaches the large intestine, where it promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria,” — the scientists explain.
Moreover, dark chocolate promotes the production of beneficial fatty acids, such as butyric and isovalric acids. These substances improve digestion and overall gastrointestinal function.
“The higher the cocoa content, the less sugar is in the chocolate. I recommend choosing bars with at least 70% cocoa beans. Such chocolate is rich in antioxidants and, as a bonus, helps maintain heart and vascular health, as well as preserve youth,” — comments endocrinologist Zuhra Pavlova.
Another pleasant aspect for dark chocolate lovers: this product positively affects cognitive functions. Studies have shown that people who consume dark chocolate concentrate better and solve logical problems faster.
However, do not forget about moderation, reminds Zuhra Pavlova. It is sufficient to eat 1-2 pieces of chocolate a day. To prolong the pleasure, slowly dissolve a piece.
What Pairs Best with Chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols — plant compounds that benefit health. One of the main advantages is that this treat can help lower blood pressure. Therefore, 2-3 pieces a day will be beneficial, especially for people with hypertension.
