A to Z skin foods D:Dark Chocolate
Hey guys, good afternoon…
So what does D stand for in the skin food world? Yes, you read it correct. It is DARK CHOCOLATE!!!!!!
Although it seems too good to be true, dark chocolate is actually good for you. (yey it rhymed!!)
Dark chocolate is loaded with organic compounds that are biologically active and function as antioxidants. These include polyphenols, flavanols, catechins, among others. These benefits come from the cocoa beans, which are roasted, ground and mixed with cocoa butter and sugar to form a chocolate bar. Always check the percentage of cocoa in the dark chocolate before buying. It is mentioned on the wrapper. The higher the percentage of cocoa, the better the chocolate is for you.
A 100 gram bar of dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa contains:
- 11 grams of fiber.
- 67% of the RDA for Iron.
- 58% of the RDA for Magnesium.
- 89% of the RDA for Copper.
- 98% of the RDA for Manganese.
- It also has plenty of potassium, phosphorus, zinc and selenium.
Let us check out the benefits of dark chocolate for your skin.
- Sun protection: The flavanols in dark chocolate protect your skin against sun-induced damage. (Still don’t forget to slather on sunscreen).
- Skin hydration: The flavanols increase blood circulation to the skin thus increasing skin hydration and complexion.
- Slows down ageing: Dark chocolate is loaded with organic compounds that are biologically active and function as antioxidants. These include polyphenols, flavanols and catechins among others. These antioxidants in dark chocolate attack the free radicals and prevent damage to our cells. This slows down ageing of the cells.
- Improves blood flow: The flavanols in dark chocolate improve blood flow in the body. Improved blood flow to the skin helps the skin to look nourished.
- Improves mood: Chocolate contains phenylethylamine (PEA), which is the same chemical that your brain creates when you feel like you’re falling in love. PEA encourages your brain to release feel-good endorphins, chemicals in the brain that bring on feelings of pleasure. It also contains the chemical serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant. And feeling good, definitely leaves us looking good and glowing.
How to incorporate dark chocolate in your diet??? Seriously???
Just Go Grab It!!! But hey, wait a minute…………….
In spite of all these benefits, dark chocolate contains lots of calories. So always exercise portion control. Also remember not to have it as an after meal dessert. Have it as a mid meal all by itself. Take a small square, relax, take a bite, close your eyes and mmmmmmm…….enjoy!!!
Sorry guys I am skipping the recipe today. Dark chocolate is used to make delicious desserts but then they are loaded with fat and sugar. I suggest just enjoy the little square. Have fun!!
Do you feel like you have tried everything possible in order to lose weight? You are not alone–many people have the same problem. The following article is designed to give you tips that you may not have even known existed. By following these tips, you will reach your weight loss goal in no time.
Thanks Angelaloova.