Chocolate is an indulgence that’s hard to resist. Although it’s common to lump it with other treats, chocolate can provide several health benefits when eaten in moderation. If you’re hesitant about treating yourself to a piece of milk, dark, or Hawaiian chocolate, here are a few health benefits this sweet bite offers.

The Health Benefits of Eating Chocolate

1. Support Cognitive Function

Cocoa beans contain cocoa flavanols, which is an antioxidant that can improve cognitive function and memory, as well as combat mental decline. This antioxidant supports the brain’s blood circulation, enhancing its visual imagery processing. Additionally, people with Alzheimer’s may experience a boost in cognitive function if they consume cocoa extract.

2. Better Athletic Skill

Certain types of chocolate enhance athletic performance. In particular, cyclists who consume dark chocolate use less oxygen during a two-minute time trial and will travel farther than those who don’t eat it. As with the many other health benefits, the flavonols were responsible for their progress. This benefit may also be advantageous to other similar activities, like running.

3. Improve Heart Health

People who eat chocolate are 22% less likely to experience a stroke than those who don’t. Consistently eating chocolate in moderation over time also has a significant impact on the severity of the strokes. While scientists aren’t sure why chocolate has these effects, it’s suspected that this link is due to the flavanols. Additionally, dark chocolate can help reduce bad cholesterol, especially when added to a low-fat diet.

If you want to enjoy these health benefits, get Hawaiian chocolate from Dole/Tropical Fruits Distributors of Hawaii in Honolulu. This company grows its cocoa bean’s on Oahu’s north shore, where they flourish in the rich, volcanic soil. The nutrients in the soil are passed onto the beans then given to the chocolate. Call (808) 847-3234 to place an order of Hawaiian chocolate, and get information about their shipping policies online.