Chocolates… the name itself makes the mouth water and lips smacking. It is most likely related to the combination of its wonderful aroma, flavor and consistency. And why not, after all chocolates are considered to be a heavenly delight. Unfortunately, the way people latch onto the slightest evidence that the things they enjoy might also be good for their health. Studies in some of the scientific journals say that chocolates are good for the health. Chocolate has been used for medicinal purposes throughout history, and here are some of them that give you a reason to enjoy one.
• Helps to treat number of diseases: They can be used to treat anemia, poor appetite, mental fatigue, tuberculosis, gout, fever, and kidney stones, lung cancer, prostate cancer, asthma, and type 2 diabetes.
• Stimulates nervous system: Chocolates helps to elevate fatigue and makes us feel good, stimulates the nervous systems of weak patients, and improving digestion and elimination.
• Protects cell from damage: They help to protect cells from damaging by free radicals, because of phytochemical known as Flavonoids. Flavonoids, that is also present in red wine, green tea, peanuts, cranberries, strawberries, apples, and many other fruits and vegetables, act as antioxidants by protecting cells from damage by free radicals.
• Improves cardiovascular health:Chocolate high in flavonoids, like dark and semi-sweet chocolates also help to improve cardiovascular health.
• Improves blood flow: Research has also shown that chocolate may work equivalent to aspirin to help keep platelets in blood from sticking together or clotting. This improves blood flow and can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Takes care of LDL cholesterol: In addition, flavonoids in chocolate may decrease oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol. When LDLs are oxidized, they increase plaque build-up in blood vessels. Chocolate may also increase nitric oxide activity, which is important for healthy blood pressure.
• Works as antiseptic: Chocolate acts as an antiseptic, diuretic, parasiticide, and pilatory. It is used to treat burns, cough, listlessness, pregnancy, and snake bite.
• Works as stimulant: Chocolate is a stimulant and contains caffeine, theobromine and phenyl ethylamine, which is an endorphin. Endorphins are naturally released into the blood and elevate the mood, and also leads to increase in pleasant feelings and a reduction in tension. They also help to treat depression.
• Treats cold: Theobromine that has a similar effect to that of caffeine, also helps to stimulate the muscles, heart, and kidneys. In fact, it can relieve congestion during colds by simply opening the bronchial passages in the lungs.
• Good for skin as well: Not only does chocolate moisturize and soften the skin but its sweet and mind-blowing scent will leave you exiting the salon or spa feeling both happy and full of life. The cocoa butter found in chocolate is rich with fatty acids which is the root to the post-treatment improved smoothness and radiance of your skin.
