If you're a chocolate lover, you'll be delighted to know that 3 blocks (37g) of Extra Pure Dark Chocolate total only 160 calories. This sweet indulgence, however, isn't just delicious, it's also packed full of nutrients and health benefits that make it an ideal addition to your daily diet.
Extra Pure Dark Chocolate contains high levels of iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese, all of which are essential minerals for our health. Additionally, it's rich in antioxidants, particularly flavanols, which contribute to its numerous health benefits.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of Extra Pure Dark Chocolate and why you should consider incorporating it into your diet.
In addition to its delicious taste, Extra Dark Chocolate offers many nutritional benefits. One 37-gram serving of Extra Dark Chocolate contains 17% of the recommended daily intake of iron, 21% of copper, and 15% of manganese. Magnesium is present in high levels in Extra Dark Chocolate, at 47% of the recommended daily intake. The high nutrient content of Extra Dark Chocolate makes it an excellent source of minerals that promote good health. Magnesium, for example, helps improve brain function, aids in digestion, and contributes to healthy bone growth, among other benefits. Copper is essential for maintaining healthy connective tissues, while manganese plays a vital role in the formation of bones and cartilage.
Eating Extra Dark Chocolate has several health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, better brain function, and improved mood. The flavanols in Extra Dark Chocolate help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure, which can decrease the risk of heart disease. Additionally, consuming Extra Dark Chocolate can boost blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function and helping prevent age-related memory decline. Dark chocolate is also known to have mood-boosting properties. Consuming it stimulates the production of endorphins and boosts serotonin levels, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Despite its reputation as a high-calorie indulgence, Extra Dark Chocolate can actually be a useful addition to your weight loss plan. Its high levels of fiber and protein can help you feel full for longer, reducing hunger pangs and preventing overeating. Additionally, consuming Extra Dark Chocolate can increase your metabolism and promote fat burning. It's important to note that not all chocolate is created equal. Extra Pure Dark Chocolate contains more cocoa and less sugar than milk chocolate or semisweet chocolate, making it the best option for reaping health benefits while managing your weight.
Consuming Extra Dark Chocolate can improve cognitive function and enhance memory recall. This is due to its high flavanol content, which promotes blood flow to the brain and stimulates the growth of new neurons. The flavanols in Extra Dark Chocolate are also neuroprotective, helping to prevent age-related cognitive decline and protecting the brain from damage caused by oxidative stress. Additionally, consuming Extra Dark Chocolate can boost your mood, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting feelings of calm and happiness.
One of the most significant benefits of consuming Extra Dark Chocolate is its impact on heart health. The flavanols in Extra Dark Chocolate can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the heart. By promoting healthy blood flow, Extra Dark Chocolate can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Consuming Extra Dark Chocolate in moderation has also been shown to decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels. This cholesterol regulation can further reduce the risk of heart disease.
A Delicious Way to Get Your Antioxidants
Antioxidants are essential for reducing inflammation and neutralizing harmful free radicals in our bodies. Flavanols, the primary antioxidants in Extra Dark Chocolate, have been linked to reduced risk of cancer, improved immune function, and healthier, more youthful-looking skin. Consuming Extra Dark Chocolate regularly can help you meet your daily antioxidant needs while satisfying your sweet tooth. Be sure to choose high-quality, Extra Pure Dark Chocolate with high cocoa content for maximum health benefits.
An Indulgent, Guilt-Free Snack
One of the best things about Extra Dark Chocolate is that it's a guilt-free indulgence. Unlike other desserts or snacks, Extra Dark Chocolate is low in sugar and saturated fat while being high in antioxidants, minerals, and nutrients. Additionally, consuming Extra Dark Chocolate can satisfy your cravings and reduce your overall desire for sweets. By enjoying a little bit of chocolate regularly, you can avoid binging on unhealthy snacks and maintain a healthier diet.
In addition to its many health benefits, Extra Dark Chocolate is also known for its mood-boosting properties. Consuming Extra Dark Chocolate releases endorphins, promotes serotonin production, and reduces cortisol levels, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. To reap the mood-boosting benefits of Extra Dark Chocolate, choose high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. Dark chocolate with added sugar or milk may not provide the same mood-enhancing effects.
Flavanols are powerful antioxidants that can improve brain function, boost heart health, and reduce inflammation. Extra Pure Dark Chocolate is one of the best dietary sources of flavanols, making it an ideal snack for those seeking to boost their health and well-being. Consuming Extra Pure Dark Chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa solids can provide numerous health benefits, including improved blood flow, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cognitive function. Flavanols also help protect the skin from sun damage, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
After a tough workout, your body needs a snack that will provide both energy and nutrients to aid muscle recovery. Extra Dark Chocolate is an excellent post-workout snack because it contains high levels of magnesium, which helps reduce muscle soreness and cramping. Additionally, the flavanols in Extra Dark Chocolate can help reduce inflammation, promote blood flow, and increase levels of nitric oxide, all of which aid in muscle recovery and growth. The protein and fiber in this delicious snack will also help keep you feeling full and satisfied, preventing overeating and supporting weight management goals.
Frequently Asked Questions about Extra Pure Dark Chocolate
1. How many calories are in 3 blocks (37 g) of Extra Pure Dark Chocolate?
There are 160 calories in 3 blocks (37 g) of Extra Pure Dark Chocolate.
2. What is the percentage of cocoa in Extra Pure Dark Chocolate?
Extra Pure Dark Chocolate typically has a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher. The higher the percentage of cocoa, the richer and more intense the chocolate flavor.
3. Is Extra Pure Dark Chocolate healthy?
Extra Pure Dark Chocolate can be healthy in moderation because it contains antioxidants and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. However, it is also high in calories and fat, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. What is the difference between Extra Pure Dark Chocolate and regular Dark Chocolate?
Extra Pure Dark Chocolate typically has a higher percentage of cocoa and fewer added ingredients such as sugar and milk. This results in a more intense chocolate flavor with a slightly bitter taste, compared to regular Dark Chocolate which is milder and sweeter.
5. How should I store Extra Pure Dark Chocolate?
Extra Pure Dark Chocolate should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, as exposure to heat and light can cause the chocolate to melt and lose its flavor. It can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, but should be brought to room temperature before consuming to prevent condensation from forming on the chocolate surface.