Not So Dark
Despite the fact that chocolate contains a lot of calories, you don't necessarily need to steer clear of it. In fact, having a slice or two of dark chocolate can be helpful in many ways.
Power-Packed With Nutrients: Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa has plenty of essential nutrients. It’s high in iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese, and also contains calcium, potassium, zinc, and traces of vitamins A, B, E, and K.
High In Antioxidants: Did you know? Polyphenols, the cocoa bean’s natural defense chemicals, are a type of antioxidant. These compounds can help prevent damage to the cells in your body!
Mood Enhancer: The flavonols in dark chocolate stimulate the release of endorphins, while cocoa compounds also produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that boosts mood. No wonder chocolate always makes us feel so gooooood!
Undoubtedly, your taste buds will get to enjoy some dark chocolate. But how much can you eat?
The Chocolate Therapist, Julie Nygard recommends about 1 ounce of >70% dark chocolate daily.
That’s about 28 grams or 4 squares of chocolate. Sweet!