“Chocolate is cheaper than therapy and you don’t need an appointment.” – Catherine Aitken
Go ahead, discover the beauty secrets of chocolate, indulge in a piece of this decadent delight, and let nature’s beauty elixir work its magic.
Chocolate, often hailed as the “food of the gods,” has captivated human taste buds for centuries. Its rich, velvety texture and heavenly taste have earned it a special place in our hearts. But did you know that chocolate holds beauty secrets beyond its delectable flavor? In this article, we will explore the remarkable beauty benefits that lie within this sweet indulgence.
Chocolate, in its purest form, is a treasure trove of beauty-enhancing properties. From its antioxidant-rich composition to its stress-reducing effects, this delectable treat offers a host of benefits for both skin and hair.
Beauty secrets of chocolate
Remember, moderation is key. Opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content to maximize its beauty benefits while savoring the sweet symphony of flavors.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Dark chocolate, in particular, is a potent source of antioxidants. These compounds combat harmful free radicals that contribute to premature aging and various skin issues. Flavonoids, found abundantly in dark chocolate, protect the skin from environmental damage, leaving it looking radiant and youthful.
“When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.” – Regina Brett
Skin Hydration and Nourishment
Cocoa butter, a key component of chocolate, is a natural emollient. This means it helps lock in moisture, keeping the skin supple and hydrated. Regular application of cocoa-infused products can help soothe dry, flaky skin and prevent moisture loss.
Stress Reduction for Glowing Skin
Ever heard of a “chocolate glow”? Chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a compound that promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. These endorphins reduce stress levels, which, in turn, can improve skin health. Reduced stress leads to less inflammation, resulting in clearer, more radiant skin.
Sun Protection from the Inside
The flavonoids in dark chocolate may also provide some degree of protection against harmful UV rays. Studies have shown that these compounds can increase blood flow to the skin’s surface, improving its ability to resist UV damage. While this should not replace conventional sunscreen, it adds an extra layer of defense.
Combatting Acne and Inflammation
Chocolate with a high cocoa content is a good source of zinc. Zinc plays a vital role in regulating the production of sebum, the skin’s natural oil. When balanced, sebum production can prevent clogged pores and reduce the likelihood of acne breakouts. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of cocoa can help calm irritated skin.
Hair Health and Shine
Chocolate isn’t just beneficial for the skin; it can also work wonders for your hair. The high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in chocolate nourish the scalp and hair follicles. This can lead to stronger, shinier hair with improved texture and manageability.
Relaxation and Sleep Aid
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall health and beauty. The magnesium content in chocolate helps relax muscles and calm the nervous system, making it an excellent bedtime snack. A well-rested body is more capable of repairing and regenerating skin cells, resulting in a fresh and revitalized complexion.
Chocolate’s nutritional profile
Chocolate is good not only for your mood but for your general health. A 100 gram serving of milk chocolate contains 59% of carbohydrates (52% as sugar and 3% as dietary fiber), 30% fat and 8% protein and supplies 540 calories.
Raw chocolate is high in cocoa butter, a fat which is removed during chocolate refining, then added back in varying proportions during the manufacturing process. Manufacturers may add other fats, sugars, and milk as well, all of which increase the caloric content of chocolate. Approximately 65% of the fat is saturated, composed mainly of palmitic acid and stearic acid.
Chocolate has over 19% of the Daily Value of riboflavin, vitamin B12 and the dietary minerals – manganese, phosphorus and zinc; and 10-19% of the Daily Value of calcium, magnesium and iron. It also contains polyphenols, especially catechins and flavonoids. Flavonoids are important antioxidants, and promote a number of health benefits.
Why chocolate makes you happier?
What’s in chocolate that makes you happier? The stimulant effect of chocolate is due to a combination of theobromine, theophylline and caffeine.
Theobromine has been identified as one of the compounds contributing to chocolate’s reputed role as an aphrodisiac.
Caffeine is naturally found in coffee, tea, and to a lesser degree – in cocoa or chocolate (however, by weight, dark chocolate has one to two times the amount caffeine as coffee: 80–160mg per 100g). Caffeine is included in many soft drinks, and mostly because of that it is the world’s most widely used psychoactive drug and by far the most common stimulant. In North America, 90% of adults consume caffeine daily.
“There is nothing better than a friend unless it is a friend with chocolate.” – Linda Grayson
Here’s chocolate for you, sweetheart!
Here’s chocolate for you, sweetheart! Chocolate has been shown to improve depression and anxiety symptoms and help enhance feelings of calmness and contentedness. Chocolate will never let you down and always make you feel better.
Even thinking about that sensation of warm melting cream at the back of the throat makes you feel better. Indeed, the association of chocolate with good mood and romance is well documented. Chocolate is as sophisticated as wine in the way it is designed to ignite our senses and give us pleasure.
“Nine out of ten people like chocolate. The tenth person always lies.” – Unknown
“Put ‘eat chocolate’ at the top of your list of things to do today. That way, at least you’ll get one thing done.” – Unknown
