Is Chocolate Really Good For You? 7 Reasons To Indulge More

Chocolates may not be your favorite sweet treat even if the confection conjures thoughts of love, pleasure and reward. However, if you need several reasons to indulge chocolate, you can always turn to science for proof.

Despite its bad reputation for causing weight gain, there are numerous health benefits linked in consuming chocolate. Just remember, though, the darker the chocolate, the more flavonoids and flavonols it contains. So, check out seven more reasons to indulge in chocolate:

1. It's good for the heart and circulation.

The Telegraph UK reports that a recent study found that dark chocolate helps restore flexibility to arteries. Chocolate also prevents white blood cells from sticking to the walls of blood vessels, which are common causes of artery clogging.

The Medical News also reports that a research published in British Medical Journal suggested that consuming chocolate decreases the risk of developing heart disease by more than 30 percent.

2. It reduces risk of stroke

A study in Finland has found that chocolate consumption lowers the risk of suffering a stroke by 17 percent average among the men they tested, Telegraph reports.

Another study conducted by Canadian scientists found that people eating chocolate were found to be 22 percent less likely to suffer stroke, according to Medical News.

3. It's rich in minerals

According to The Telegraph, dark chocolate is filled with minerals such as potassium, zinc and selenium. A 100g bar of dark chocolate provides 67 percent of the RDA of iron.

4. It reduces cholesterol

Consumption of cocoa has been shown to reduce levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and raise levels of "good" cholesterol, reports The Telegraph. As a result, it lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease.

5. It's good for your skin

The flavonols in dark chocolate can protect the skin against sun damage, according to a report by Share Care. German Researchers found that these compounds in dark chocolate can absorb UV light, increase blood flow to the skin and improve skin's hydration and complexion, according to Reader's Digest.

6. It can help you lose weight

Neuroscientist Will Clower says a small square of good chocolate melted on the tongue 20 minutes before a meal triggers the hormones in the brain that makes you feel full, reports The Telegraph. In turn, it will cut the amount of food you consume. Finishing a meal with chocolate can also decrease cravings afterwards.

7. It's good for mothers and babies

A Finnish study found that chocolate reduces stress in expectant mothers, according to The Telegraph. More so, their babies smiled more often than the offspring of non-chocolate-eating parents.

Check out this bonus recipe video from Ania's Kitchen just in time for Valentine's: