The Many Health Benefits of Eating Great Value Dark Chocolate

Dark Chocolate is Packed with Antioxidants

One of the main reasons dark chocolate is so beneficial is that it contains antioxidants called flavonoids. These antioxidants help fight free radicals that can damage cells and lead to disease. The higher the cocoa content of the chocolate, the more antioxidants it contains.

Great Value's dark chocolate has a minimum of 60% cocoa, which means it provides a solid dose of these protective antioxidants. Flavonoids in dark chocolate have been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve cholesterol levels.

It May Boost Heart Health

The flavonoids in dark chocolate also help protect the health of your heart and blood vessels. Studies have found that regularly eating dark chocolate reduces the risk of developing heart disease. One review of research found that eating dark chocolate reduced bad LDL cholesterol, lowered blood pressure, and improved blood flow.

These effects are likely due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the flavonoids. The tiny amount of caffeine in chocolate may also play a role by making platelets less sticky and less likely to clot.

How Much Do You Need to Eat?

Most studies show heart health benefits from eating around 1-2 ounces or 30-60g of dark chocolate per day. This is an amount you can easily get from great value's dark chocolate bars. Just be aware that dark chocolate is high in calories, so pace yourself.

It Can Improve Brain Function

Great value's dark chocolate doesn't just protect your heart, it can also boost your brain! Research has found that the flavonoids in dark chocolate have positive effects on brain function. They help increase blood flow to the brain and also stimulate the formation of new neurons.

This may explain why studies have revealed that regularly eating dark chocolate improves memory, learning, and problem-solving skills. The antioxidants also help fight oxidative stress in brain cells to prevent mental decline.

Dark Chocolate May Protect Your Skin

The same nutrients that make dark chocolate good for your heart and brain can also benefit your skin. The flavonoids help protect your skin from damage caused by UV radiation from the sun. They also increase blood flow to the skin to give you a healthy glow.

Some early research has found that eating high-flavanol chocolate helps prevent sunburn. Great value's dark chocolate with its high cocoa content provides an ample amount of flavanols to take advantage of these skin-protecting powers.

It Could Lower Your Risk of Diabetes

Great value's dark chocolate doesn't just protect against chronic diseases, it may also help prevent them. Studies have found that regularly eating dark chocolate reduces your risk of developing diabetes. One analysis of over 19,000 people found that those who ate the most chocolate were 37% less likely to get diabetes.

This protective effect is thought to come from dark chocolate's ability to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. The antioxidants help reduce inflammation involved in diabetes development.

Look for at Least 60% Cocoa

To get these benefits, choose chocolate like great value dark chocolate that has a cocoa content of at least 60%. Higher cocoa percentages provide more antioxidants to better regulate your blood sugar.

It Contains Prebiotics for Digestive Health

Great value's dark chocolate doesn't just provide antioxidants, it also contains prebiotic fiber that promotes good gut bacteria. Prebiotics are non-digestible compounds that act as food for probiotics in your intestines.

Cocoa contains prebiotic compounds that help nourish beneficial Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. This helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your digestive system to support overall health.

The Fiber Also Helps with Regularity

In addition to the prebiotic benefits, the fiber in dark chocolate acts as a mild laxative. This helps prevent constipation by adding bulk and water to stools to keep your digestive system regular.

Its Minerals Improve Bone Health

Great value dark chocolate provides minerals that play an important role in maintaining strong, healthy bones. It contains significant amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese.

These minerals help build bone matrix and density to prevent conditions like osteoporosis. They also promote collagen production to keep your bones flexible and resilient.

Just Remember Portion Control

To get these bone-protecting minerals without excess calories and fat, stick to 1-2 ounces of dark chocolate daily. This gives you an adequate dose of minerals to support bone health without negating other benefits.

It Elevates Your Mood and Reduces Stress

Who doesn't love chocolate? Great value's dark chocolate makes an excellent treat because its unique compounds actually elevate your mood. The flavonoids increase production of serotonin and other feel-good neurotransmitters in the brain.

Additionally, the act of eating chocolate is soothing and rewarding. Dark chocolate helps calm feelings of stress by lowering cortisol levels in the body. An ounce a day provides a safe and effective way to improve your mental state.

Choose Simple Ingredients for Best Results

To maximize dark chocolate's stress-relieving properties, select varieties like great value with simple, natural ingredients. Added sugars and artificial flavors dilute the therapeutic effects.

It May Boost Athletic Performance

While exercise can be demanding on your body, great value's dark chocolate provides nutrients that help you perform at your best. Its flavonoids improve blood flow to working muscles. This provides more oxygen to enhance endurance and stamina.

The magnesium and antioxidants in dark chocolate may also help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after strenuous activity. Its energy-boosting effects can further support your active lifestyle.

Enjoy in Moderation Around Workouts

Aim for an ounce or two either before or after a workout. More than that provides unnecessary calories that aren't used as fuel. The treat offers you the most benefit when your body needs quick replenishment.

Dark Chocolate Makes a Nutritious Dessert

When you want something sweet after a meal, great value's dark chocolate is a smart choice. Rather than providing empty calories and sugar like many desserts, it packs in nutrients your body needs. The minerals, antioxidants, fiber and more make it a wholesome, satisfying way to finish a meal.

Additionally, the bitter notes along with the sweetness prevent you from overdoing it. The rich flavor means you can savor a small serving and feel content.

Slice a Bar into Small Pieces

To keep your chocolate dessert size in check, break it into small pieces rather than eating the whole bar. This allows you to pace yourself and fully enjoy the complex flavor in just a bite or two.

Tips for Enjoying Great Value Dark Chocolate

Great value's dark chocolate makes it easy to reap the many health benefits this tasty treat provides. Here are some tips for making the most of its nutrition:

• Choose bars with at least 60% cocoa for maximum antioxidants.
• Consume in moderation, around 1-2 ounces a day.
• Savor the flavor by letting it slowly melt in your mouth.
• Pair with fruits like berries or orange slices to balance the bitterness.
• Buy individually wrapped pieces so you don't overeat.
• Select brands without unnecessary additives or extra sugar.

Dark chocolate from great value gives you great health benefits at a price that won't break the bank. Let it be your go-to for a nutritious, feel-good treat.

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.