Health Benefits of 60% Cocoa Dark Chocolate

Introduction to 60 Cocoa Chocolate

Chocolate is a beloved treat enjoyed around the world. In its purest form containing at least 60% cocoa, it can also provide impressive health benefits. The higher the percentage of antioxidant-rich cocoa, the greater the effects.

Cocoa and Flavanols

Cocoa, the key ingredient in chocolate, contains beneficial plant compounds called flavanols. Flavanols act as antioxidants in the body to combat cell damage and promote vascular health.

Benefits of 60% Cocoa

Opt for chocolate with 60% cocoa content or higher to gain the most flavanols with less added sugars. This moderate bitterness balances well with the sweetness.

15 Science-Based Health Benefits

Regularly eating 60-100% cocoa dark chocolate has shown to potentially:

Lower Blood Pressure

Cocoa flavanols increase nitric oxide levels, relaxing blood vessels and improving circulation.

Reduce LDL Cholesterol

Chocolate may lower bad cholesterol through antioxidant activity in the bloodstream.

Raise HDL Cholesterol

These good cholesterol levels increase from saturated fat content to remove wastes from arteries.

Balance Blood Sugar

Although sweet, cacao helps modulate insulin response and nutrient absorption and utilization.

Decrease Inflammation

Anti-inflammatory qualities stem from high concentrations of antioxidant flavonoids.

Boost Cognition

Better blood flow to the brain appears to sharpen memory, thinking, reaction speed and mood.

Lift Mood

Chocolate stimulates neurotransmitters like serotonin associated with feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.

Protect Skin

Flavanols increase circulation and density for smoother, younger-looking skin.

Prevent Blood Clots

Compounds keep platelets from clustering on artery walls reducing clotting incidents.

Strengthen Immunity

Nutrients like theobromine, magnesium, zinc and selenium support immune response and disease resistance.

Preserve Vision

Antioxidants promote eye health, improving function and slowing age-related vision decline.

Aid Weight Loss

Fiber creates feelings of fullness to curb cravings and lessen calorie intake.

Build Muscle Mass

Minerals like potassium, phosphorus, copper and magnesium contribute to muscle contractions and growth.

Decrease Fatigue

Essential compounds reduce exhaustion while boosting stamina and workout capacity.

How to Select 60% Cocoa Chocolate

With your health in mind, always check the label when purchasing chocolate.

Percentage of Cocoa

Choose bars listing at least 60% cacao content up to 100% unsweetened for maximum benefits.

Ingredient Quality

Seek out organic, fair trade sources using natural cane sugar and clean products.

Production Ethics

Support responsible brands that create high-quality chocolate through sustainable practices.

11 Dietitian-Recommended 60% Cacao Chocolates

Hu Organic Simple 70% Cacao Bar

With cocoa butter, vanilla and unrefined sugar, this smooth sweet bar makes snacking healthy.

Alter Eco 90% Blackout Bar

At 4g of sugar and 12g of fiber per serving, this nearly sugar-free option satisfies hardcore cacao cravings.

Theo 84% Cacao Organic Chocolate Bar

Ethically-sourced cacao and organic sugar create the perfect balance of bitter and sweet in this bar.

Equal Exchange Organic Very Dark Chocolate

Their signature blend of fine flavor cacao offers indulgence you can feel good about.

Ghirardelli 86% Extreme Dark Chocolate Bar

Americas longest operating chocolate maker produces this velvety midnight colored cocoa bar.

Green & Black's Organic 70% Dark Chocolate Bar

This pioneering brand led the way for high quality ethical organic chocolate in the 90s.

Endangered Species 72% Dark Chocolate

With a smooth, velvety texture, 10% of net profits support wildlife conservation efforts.

Callebaut 60% Bittersweet Chocolate Baking Wafers

When you crave homemade chocolate chip cookies or hot fudge, reach for these quality wafers.

Pascha 55% Cacao Dark Organic Chocolate Chips

Dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free chips sweetened with coconut sugar for guilt-free baking.

Taza 60% Cacao Wicked Dark Chocolate Disks

Stone-ground heirloom cacao renders rustic texture and authentic bold flavor.

Valrhona Le Noir 61% Cacao Semisweet Chocolate Chips

Crafted in the Rhne Valley since 1922, these exceptional French chips enhance any recipe.

Risks and Considerations

To enjoy chocolate safely, note that cocoa may interact with certain medications while calories and fat remain a factor for some.

MAO Inhibitors

Avoid mixing medications like antidepressants with tyramine-containing chocolate.

Migraine Triggers

Phenethylamine and caffeine can induce headaches in migraine sufferers.

Oxalate Content

Those prone to kidney stones should limit chocolate containing oxalic acid.

Allergies

In rare cases people demonstrate allergic reactions to cocoa, soy lecithin or milk ingredients.

Weight Gain

While the fat content is heart healthy, calories add up quickly leading to weight gain if overeaten.

The Takeaway

With impressive research on its benefits, antioxidant-rich 60% cocoa chocolate and cocoa powder offer much more than sweet satisfaction. Just remember foods, even healthy ones, are best enjoyed in moderation.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.