CIoccolato rhymes with good humor. It is in fact one of the most loved foods by adults and children. Milk, dark or white, puts everyone in agreement. Yet, from a nutritional point of view, these variants are deeply different. Experts have no doubts: You must prefer the extra dark onefull of many beneficial properties for the body. On the occasion of World Chocolate Day, which occurs on July 7thlet’s find out with the Dr. Elisabetta MacorsiniHumanitas Medical Care nutritionist biologist –Humanitas Mater Domini Hospital Why enjoy it even in summer. But in moderation.
Chocolate: because it is good
“They are enough 30 grams per day of 70% dark chocolate To get numerous health benefits. First of all, protects the heart and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases Thanks to the presence of its antioxidants, such as flavonoids and theobromine. HelpFurthermore, to check the cholesterol levelsimproves the elasticity of the blood vessels and the fluidity of the blood. And, as if that were not enough, he is able to lower blood pressure. The cocoa contained in dark chocolate helps the immune systemthanks to its anti -inflammatory effect. Numerous studies have shown that Cocoa positively affects chronic inflammationthus limiting the onset of atherosclerosis and other degenerative diseases “, explains Dr. Macorsini.
An indispensable food
«It is known as the food of happiness. Porta Allegria and good mood, but not only for its indispensable taste. It helps, in fact, the secretion of serotonin, the wellness hormone And, thanks to the presence of Anandamide and Theobromine, it can have a euphoric effect. AND A food of longevitysince it contains Quercetin, a natural compound that slows down aging. AND rich in iron and other mineral salts, Like magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc, copper and phosphorus. It is good for the bacterial flora, That is, the set of microorganisms that live in the intestine, forming the microbioma. The dark chocolate is the favorite food of some groups of bacteria and therefore contributes to the maintenance of a differentiated bacterial flora, essential for the correct functioning of the digestive system “, continues the expert.
Chocolate: Stop Fake News
“Contrary to what many think, the chocolate does not make the pimples come. The outbursts on the skin can only appear if the quantities are excessive. That’s why, although it is truly tasty, it must be assumed weightedly. Another fake news to dispel is that it causes caries. It may seem like a paradox, but It is also good for the teeth. The antibacterial substances present in dark chocolate can contrast the sugar present in the other foods. The bitter cocoa, in fact, contains natural antibacterials that prevent bacteria from affecting dental enamel And they hinder the transformation of acid sugars », underlines Dr. Macorsini.
Yes even in summer
«When temperatures become hot, chocolate can be affected. Nevertheless Summer is the season of the year in which this food is really useful. Often, in fact, minerals like magnesium and potassium must be integrated. But we know that chocolate contains them in good quantities. Above 20 degrees, however, it is advisable Keep it in the refrigerator In a hermetic closing container, positioning it in the last shelves, where the cold is less intense. Alternatively you can Enjoy a ball of craft ice cream with dark chocolate. The benefits will be all the same », concludes Dr. Macorsini.
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