5 Reasons You Should Gift Dark Chocolate To That ‘Special Someone’ This Xmas

Thinking of what to gift that special person this Christmas. Well, you might have heard of the numerous health risks of eating too much chocolate.

Hey, if that is your worry, then worry no more because, dark chocolates are exception.

Keep in mind that all chocolate was not created equal;

Dark chocolate packs more of a health punch overall, but even the bittersweet varieties can be high in calories, fat and sugar.

However, treating yourself to a small amount regularly is definitely a health message we can get behind.

Take a look at some of the surprising health benefits below;

1.It Improves Blood Flow

Cocoa has anti-clotting, blood-thinning properties  that work in a similar way to aspirin which can improve blood flow and circulation.

2. It Can Quiet Coughs

Can’t stop coughing? An ingredient in chocolate called theobromine seems to reduce activity of the vagus verve, the part of the brain that triggers hard-to-shake coughs. In late 2010, the BBC reported that scientists were investigating creating a drug containing theobromine to replace cough syrups containing codeine, which can have risky side effects.

 3. It Protects Your Skin

Forget what you’ve heard about chocolate causing breakouts: Dark chocolate is actually good for your skin. The type of antioxidants called flavonoids found in it offer some protection from UV damage from the sun. And no, that does not mean you can skip the sunscreen!

4. It May Fight Diabetes

A small Italian study from 2005 found that regularly eating chocolate increases insulin sensitivity, thereby reducing risk of diabetes.