From a student handing out sweets for her classmates to an older married couple exchanging boxes of candy, Valentine's Day is the time of year when people like to show affection by gifting sugary treats to their loved ones. Whether you are on the giving or receiving end of Valentine's Day candy, you can celebrate the holiday in a healthier way by making dark chocolate your confection of choice.According to clinical studies, cocoa beans used to make chocolate contain flavonoids, which can help protect the body against damage from various toxins. Flavonoids may also help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart and the brain. Dark chocolates typically contain a higher amount of flavonoids than other types, making them a great choice for chocolate lovers.
Although candy can contribute to the formation of tooth decay, one study has shown that chocolate could actually benefit your teeth. The tannins that are present in cocoa beans may actually help prevent cavities by interfering with the bacteria's harmful interaction with teeth. Just like flavonoids, tannins have been found to be present more often in dark chocolates, rather then milk chocolates, giving you another great reason to choose the richer, sweet varieties.
One more benefit of choosing chocolate over other candies is that it is less likely to get stuck in the crevices and spaces between teeth. Gooey sweets like taffy can stay lodged in the mouth for longer periods of time, increasing the risk for tooth decay. When choosing chocolate, be sure to avoid types that also contain sticky ingredients like caramel or marshmallow, instead opt for the plain varieties.
Finally, remember that the health benefits that you can receive from dark chocolate are largely based on eating the candy in moderation. With that being said, it is easy to make this delicious and health conscious switch when you are out shopping for your sweetheart, friends, loved ones, and yourself! Happy Valentine's Day!
God Bless,
DRT
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