February is American Heart Health Month, and your friends at RED chocolate are honoring heart health. We are using this opportunity to remind people that dark chocolate has multiple heart-healthy benefits.

Do you enjoy dark chocolate? If that’s the case, you’re in luck: dark chocolate can be excellent for your heart! Not all chocolate is unhealthy for you. Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants, which can help prevent heart disease. Good news, right?

We all know that chocolate is a delicious snack, but many people have no idea that it can also contribute to a healthy heart. Contrary to popular opinion, dark chocolate is excellent for you and can help your cardiovascular health. We here at RED, are here to tell you all about why dark chocolate is awesome for heart health. We’ll also provide you with some pointers on choosing the healthiest chocolate. Keep reading if you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy your favorite food!

THE POWER OF CHOCOLATE

According to a new study published—eating chocolate regularly lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. The study showed that chocolate successfully…

• lowered the risk factors of heart attack and stroke
• lowered insulin resistance (which can lead to diabetes)
• improved blood flow through arteries, and reduce artery stiffness.

More than 1,000 participants received one of three treatments: 100 grams (3.5 oz.) of dark chocolate, 100 ml (3.4 oz.) of cocoa drink with 30 grams (1 oz.) of added sugar, or a placebo daily for four weeks to 12 weeks, according to the researchers. The study found that people who regularly ingested dark chocolate or cocoa powder with added sugar had lower blood pressure levels and LDL cholesterol.

While not all treatment alternatives were beneficial, the results showed that eating 100 grams of dark chocolate affected various cardiovascular risk variables, such as high blood pressure and LDL.

They also found that regular consumption of dark chocolate is associated with improved flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery, which helps lower blood pressure. Chocolate can also improve your endothelial function.

HEART HEALTH: MODERATION IS KEY

While dark chocolate is high in sugar and calories—the idea is to consume only a moderate bit of chocolate each day — not too much.

• 1) Keep your portion sizes under check. Don’t overindulge in chocolate; it can be heavy in calories. (Although, RED chocolate is crafted to be 35–40% fewer calories than other chocolates.) To receive the advantages, all you need is a small piece of dark chocolate.
• 2) Prioritize quantity above quality. When choosing chocolate, choose something with a lot of cocoa. This signifies that most of the product is made up of antioxidant-rich cocoa beans. Researchers say the best way to enjoy chocolate for heart health is dark chocolate, with at least 70% cocoa content.

It turns out that the health benefits of dark chocolate aren’t the only ones. This delectable snack can also help manage blood pressure, relieve stress, and prevent diabetes. The most crucial aspect of learning how to eat chocolate for heart health is determining which cocoa powder is best for you. Dark chocolate, for example, is high in antioxidants, which has been demonstrated in multiple clinical trials to be beneficial to cardiovascular health. Yet, don’t force yourself to eat it if it doesn’t agree with your stomach or it really isn’t tasty to you.

If dark chocolate doesn’t work well with your palate, find a new favorite by experimenting with recipes like brownies, cookies, cakes, and other recipes. Although, it should not replace more heart-healthy foods like whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, nuts, and fatty fish. Chocolate can still be a delicious way to get your recommended daily dose of antioxidants. When enjoyed in moderation, chocolate can provide many benefits for cardiovascular health, but remember to still get daily exercise!

RED CHOCOLATE HONORING HEART HEALTH

RED is crafted with all-natural sweeteners derived from melons, all while delivering buttery, creamy flavor without the added refined sugar. With 40% less fat and 35% fewer calories than other leading chocolates, RED is leading the confectionary no added sugar industry. RED is low carb, reduced calorie, reduced fat, gluten-free, and Kosher certified. It’s vegetarian, while our dark chocolate assortments are keto-friendly. RED is also Weight Watchers, Whole30, and Atkins friendly. Honoring heart health is easy and delicious with RED. Treat yourself indulgently.