It comes as no surprise that the delicious dark chocolate does wonders for our health. It is well known for being highly nutritious, rich in antioxidants and improves blood pressure. Recent study has revealed another amazing benefit of dark chocolate. Researchers have discovered a new kind of bacteria that breaks down the dark chocolate, fermenting it into beneficial anti-inflammatory compounds which make the chocolate highly useful for the heart.
There are 2 types of microbes in our stomach: the good ones and the bad ones. The good ones are called Bifidobacterium and lactic acid and they feast on chocolate which they ferment and produce anti-inflammatory compounds. Once the compounds are absorbed in the body, they decrease the risk of stroke by reducing the inflammation of the cardiovascular tissue.
Researcher John Finley from Louisiana State has stated that this is the first study that examines the effects dark chocolate has on stomach bacteria.
The new amazing benefit of dark chocolate comes from the fact that cocoa powder contains epicatechin and catechin which are antioxidants that are not digested by the body. These antioxidants, once they reached the colon they bring out the good bacteria.
Finley also stated that dark chocolate should be eaten in combination with fruits like pomegranate for even better health results.
New amazing benefit of dark chocolate – protects the arteries
Another recent study has revealed a new amazing benefit of dark chocolate. It appears that eating it, we reduce the risk of atherosclerosis which is when the arteries thicken and harden. Dark chocolate restores the arterial flexibility and prevents the white blood cells from sticking to the blood vessel walls. This recent study was conducted by the Top Institute Food and Nutrition and the Division of Human Nutrition at the Netherlands University.