A Baked Goods CBD Guide to the Health Benefits of Chocolate

‘Tis the season for mistletoe, candy canes, and … chocolate! At Baked Goods, some of our products contain chocolatey ingredients. So, did you know that dark chocolate may promote healthy advantages?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Small studies suggest that cocoa, an ingredient in chocolate, may have health benefits. It’s possible that certain nutrients in cocoa could improve heart health and boost brain function, especially in older adults.” Below, we list some facts about the healthy features of dark chocolate:

1. The Kuna people (indigenous individuals from Columbia and Panama) were studied for their cocoa consumption. Results from this study spawned additional studies on chocolate, as the Kuna people have reduced rates of heart disease from drinking excessive amounts of cocoa.
2. “Chocolate has a history of human consumption tracing back to 400 AD and is rich in polyphenols such as catechins, anthocyanidins, and pro anthocyanidins,” confirms a Nutrients review.
3. Chocolate that’s about 70% dark or more contains magnesium, copper, phosphorus, zinc, and iron. 70% dark chocolate may also boost neuroplasticity, which is how the brain responds to new experiences by creating synaptic networks. This may contribute to improving cognition and mood.
4. Dark chocolate also contains manganese, a mineral that supports collagen levels. What this means is that dark chocolate could contribute to youthful-looking skin!
5. It may lessen oxidative stress in the body; in turn, this can improve insulin resistance and help prevent diabetes.

When CBD is combined with the beneficial effects of chocolate, it can potentially boost your levels of anandamide. This is the ‘bliss molecule’, a natural neurotransmitter that can further support brain function. If you’re curious about trying CBD for the first time, please discuss this with your doctor to rule out medication interactions.  

Interested in trying CBD chocolate? Click here to check out our Baked Goods CBD menu, where you can purchase our CBD granola bars, protein balls, and more! 

NOTE: This article is not an alternative to formal medical advice and should not be relied on for diagnosing or treating your health condition or concerns. This post is published solely for the purpose of education. Please see your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your wellness or visit a nearby hospital if you require emergency help. 

Sources

https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/02/chocolate-health-claims

https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-and-nutrition-pictures/delicious-reasons-to-eat-dark-chocolate.aspx

https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-dark-chocolate

Chin Tan, T. Y., Lim, X. Y., Hui Yeo, J. H., Huey Lee, S. W., & Lai, N. M. (2021). The Health Effects of Chocolate and Cocoa: A Systematic Review. Nutrients, 13(9), 2909. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13092909