Exciting new research has shown that consuming dark chocolate, with at least a 70% cacao, can have positive effects on your stress levels, inflammation, mood, memory and immunity.

Cacao is a major source of flavonoids, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that are beneficial for your brain and cardiovascular (heart) health.

Interestingly when people consumed dark chocolate, the higher the concentration of cacao led to more beneficial effects on memory, mood and even immunity.

Human subjects were studied to determine how it can support cognitive, endocrine and cardiovascular health. The finding from studies were presented at the Experimental Biology 2018 annual meeting in San Diego.

Nutritionist Shopping Tips:

- Look for chocolate with at least 70% cacao and less than 30% can sugar

- Buy organic, fair trade and raw chocolate when you can

- Enjoy a small handful of chocolate (about 4 squares) and save the rest for the week

Reference: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/04/180424133628.htm