Discover the benefits of chocolate

Chocolate contains more phenolic compounds -; especially flavonoids (flavanols) such as catechin and epicatechin -; than any other food. These compounds have very high anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in our bodies. As we know, oxidative stress and inflammation are two of the main factors that affect the development of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases. So the main components in cocoa are responsible for mediating inflammation and oxidative stress.

Sweet, bittersweet, or dark chocolate should have at least 35% of cocoa liquor, which is where you start to see health benefits. White chocolate contains only cocoa butter, at least 20% by weight, but not cocoa liquor. This makes it less recommended for consumption since it doesn't contain those healthy compounds.

There are many studies showing chocolate's health benefits related to diabetes, immune response, cardiovascular diseases, reduction of hypertension, and atherosclerosis.

Several of these studies tested the effects of 30 to 50 grams of chocolate per day, but there have been reports of positive health responses for myocardial infarction with only 7.5 grams per day.

Other studies claim one to three servings per month, or one to two servings per week, can significantly lower rates of heart failure hospitalization or death compared to no chocolate in the diet.

As of now, however, there are no official recommendations for chocolate consumption.