Dark chocolate has become one of the sweet guilty pleasures that come without the guilt. In fact, the health benefits of dark chocolate are truly tremendous, with the rich supply of minerals found in the treat known for lowering both cholesterol and blood pressure, while boosting the immune system. Organic dark chocolate adds integrity to the health benefits, as refined sugars and artificial chemicals are not used in the creation of the chocolate. Cadbury and Hershey are among the chocolate manufacturers that create varieties of organically manufactured dark chocolate, with Green & Blacks being one of the most widely available brands.
Strong, dark and healthy
The rich mineral content of dark chocolate has made it a wholesome and delicious way to improve overall health. In addition to proving beneficial in lowering blood pressure, dark chocolate also contains a high amount of anti-oxidants, which work to protect cells, as well as fight against premature aging. The flavonoid compounds that are found in chocolate actually boost the immune system, while the serotonin level has been shown to be a natural and effective anti-depressant. The general rule is that the darker the chocolate, the more effective the health benefits, as the higher content of cocoa increases the potency of the mineral compounds.
Is organic chocolate better?
Organically manufactured dark chocolate increases its health benefits by avoiding the use of refined sugars and artificial chemicals. Organic chocolate also uses only cocoa beans that have been grown without the use of pesticides or other chemicals, and organic chocolates that include emulsifiers only use only soy-based products, rather than the artificial emulsifiers that can be detrimental to health. A higher content of cocoa butter is often used in place of an emulsifier, although this natural fat can dilute the flavor of the chocolate.
The number of organic chocolate brands is growing, with Green & Blacks being one of the most easily available brands on the market. The intense flavor of Green & Blacks dark chocolate has led to its popularity, and this Cadbury treat can be found both online and at many health food and department stores. Dagoba is a Hershey line of dark chocolate that includes organic fruit and nuts in the recipes, which creates unique tastes such as their Lavendar-Blueberry chocolate, and the vanilla and nutmeg flavors that are found in the Dagoba Xocolatl. Chocolove also creates a number of distinct organic flavors, such as peppermint, orange peel, and raspberry, as well as a truly unique Crystallized Ginger.
Askinoise is a more high-end organic chocolate manufacturer, offering hand-blended dark chocolate from their Springfield, Missouri location. The most unique feature of Askinoise chocolate is that it is made from ingredients purchased only from farmers that have been met personally by the company founders. Askinoise chocolate is considerably more expensive, however, with availability primarily found online.
Dark chocolate is one of the guilty pleasures that eliminate the guilt, making it a sweet and delicious way to add to a healthy lifestyle.
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