Amazing Benefits Of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is among the countless derivatives of cacao beans. It tastes a little bitter and thus not very popular among many people. But it has many health and beauty benefits to offer which makes it more preferable than the regular varieties of chocolate. Here you will learn many benefits of dark chocolate and much more. It is also packed with potent antioxidants and contains various essential nutrients which help you to stay healthy and beautiful. Powerful antioxidants like flavonoids help to avoid cardiovascular disorders and reduce risks of strokes. In addition, it also works to keep your blood cholesterol level and blood pressure in check. Seamless vision is another health benefit offered by this magical ingredient.

1. High In Antioxidants:

As mentioned above, dark chocolate hosts a range of potent antioxidants. These antioxidants protect your skin from free radical damage; keeping it soft, supple and juvenile for long.

2. Protects Skin From UV Damage:

With great sun protection properties, it shields your skin against detrimental UV rays and thus helps in preventing conditions like sunburns and skin cancer.

3. Provides Nourishment:

Regular consumption of dark chocolate helps you achieve a smooth, problem-free complexion. It also keeps your skin moist and well nourished.

4. Excellent Skin-Detoxifier:

Dark chocolate makes an excellent skin-detoxifier in combination with caffeine. It sloughs off the dead skin cells and allows the newly exposed, fresh skin to breathe freely.

5. Promotes Skin Glow:

Stress is a huge beauty bummer. If not checked, it can ruin your entire personality. Dark chocolate boasts wonderful stress-relieving qualities and work wonders in getting you a glowing skin by reducing elevated stress hormones.

6. Reduces Hair Loss:

It helps in promoting blood circulation in the scalp which leads to increased growth of healthy, lustrous locks. Thanks to being a circulation-booster, it is also found to be very effective in reducing hair loss.

7. Boosts Hair Volume:

Infused with the goodness of several hair-benefiting ingredients, dark chocolate improves the overall health of your tresses, making them super-glossy and voluminous.

8. Treats Scalp Infections:

With incredible anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps minimize the odds of getting scalp infections.

9. Heart Diseases

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants such as flavonoids. Antioxidants are the best elements that a body can receive or produce as they have the capacity to prevent ageing by free radicals that can also cause heart diseases.

10. Blood Sugar Levels

It is hard to believe that a sugar-enriched substance can balance the blood sugar levels, but it is true! The amount of sugar in dark chocolate does not affect your body much as its glycemic index is low. And the flavonoids that it is enriched with aids the influence that insulin offers on the sugar levels.

11. Cholesterol

It is no myth that cholesterol clogs the veins and arteries and doesn’t let them function normally. But dark chocolate serves to reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in the arteries and heart.

12. Mood Booster

Stress is a bad factor, and one should steer clear of it as much as possible! The contents of dark chocolate help in the production of endorphins which are produced by the brain cells and are known to alleviate the mood. It stimulates the brain cells and is known to relax a person.

13. Skin Protection

The content of flavonoids in the dark chocolate has been found to have positive effects on the body. One such effect is providing protection against the harmful UV rays of the Sun.

14. Stroke Prevention

The increased levels of flavonoids like epicatechin are known to protect the brain from strokes. This is found in dark chocolate in a good quantity. The nerve cells of people consuming dark chocolate are less prone to a stroke as compared to people who do not consume dark chocolate.

15. Anemia Cure

The flavonoids in dark chocolate also help in curing anemia and providing a treatment to those with a poor diet.

16. Eyesight Improvement

Studies have also shown that the flavanoids in dark chocolate help to improve blood flow to the brain. This further helps improve eyesight also on account of better blood flow.

17. Cognitive Function

The cognitive function in the human body is enhanced with the consumption of dark chocolate as it improves the blood flow to the brain.

18. Blood Pressure

Dark chocolate is rich in minerals such as copper and magnesium which are responsible for keeping the blood pressure normal especially in case of people with excessive fluctuation in their BP.

19. Full Of Protein

Drinking chocolate milk after exercising is great for our health because it is full of protein. If you are having one cup of milk, you will be consuming 8 to11 grams of protein. So, if you would like to consume around 17 to 25 grams of protein, you will have to drink around 500 to 700 and 50 ml of chocolate milk. This will act fast on your body, repair all those tissues and help you gain muscle mass. The content of protein in your drink will actually give you lean and fit muscles.

20. Content Of Carbohydrates

Chocolate milk also contains carbohydrates, which is great for your health, especially if you have been lifting a whole lot of weights. The count of carbohydrates also depends on the product you use. Different products have different content and levels of carbohydrates. Hershey’s Chocolate Milk seems to have the highest carb count whereas Hoods Calorie Countdown has the lowest. The sugar in this will boost your energy and restore it. You will be able to work out harder and better next time you hit the gym. In fact, this will help you enjoy the workout better. If your muscle tissues tear up, this will stop them from getting sore. In fact, they will get repaired on their own.

21. Increases Your Endurance

So, if you have been working out for a couple of weeks or are preparing yourself for a marathon soon, you would probably need something that will increase your endurance and help you workout or practice for a longer period. In that case, what could be better than chocolate milk? This will take good care of your body, boost strength and energy and help you give a hundred percent!

22. Makes You Stronger

Chocolate milk is also something that will make you stronger and healthier in the long run. If you take it at least three times a week after your workout, you will see changes in your body. You will also become stronger. Weights that couldn’t be lifted earlier will now become a little easier than last time. If you gave up too quick while running or swimming, this drink will keep you going.
Now you know what are the benefits of benefits of dark chocolate for your overall health. Now, know how to use it and store it.

The major health benefits of eating chocolate coupled with the relief a bar provides during PMS and pregnancy, advances the delicious food item to the category of healthy food. Hence, consumption of chocolate in moderate amounts daily is something you shouldn’t refrain from.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                                                                                                                                                                                        PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/  

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10 Mood-Boosting Nutrients

A diet that is lacking in key vitamins and nutrients could be to blame for bouts of bad moods. Below are some of the most important supplements for those dealing with the symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, or other mood-sabotaging conditions:

 

1. Vitamin D

Depending on where you live in the world, vitamin D can be hard to come by. Three-quarters of many teens and adults living above the tropics, are deficient in this vitamin, most likely because their exposure to sunlight is limited – and the body can only make vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight.
This nutrient is extremely important and plays a role in most bodily functions. Our brains contain a large number of vitamin D receptors, indicating that it plays a role in cognitive function. It’s recommended that everyone gets 20 minutes of sun exposure each day or 2,000 IU daily of vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D can also be found in fatty fish, cheese, eggs, mushrooms, cereals, and soy milk.
2. Omega 3 fatty acids
Research supports the theory that omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in brain health, specifically when it comes down to improving symptoms of depression and cognitive functioning. One of the best ways to get more omega-3s in your diet is to eat fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring. If eating fish isn’t your thing, you can supplement with fish oil. You can also get omega-3s from nuts and seeds such as flax seeds, chia seed, walnuts, and almonds.
It’s recommended that we get at least 1,800 - 2,000 mg of two key kinds of omega 3s: DHA and EPA. If you’re taking omega-3 supplements, they should have at least 650 mg of DHA and 1200 mg of EPA.

3. Vitamin B6

This vitamin plays an important role in a wide array of bodily functions, both psychological and physical. It’s especially important for proper nerve functioning, which is one of the reasons that it’s often associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression.
The birth control pill depletes B vitamins, especially B6, so supplementation is recommended for those who are on the pill. If you’re not on the pill, it’s recommended that you get around 25 mg of vitamin B6 each day. Seafood, lean meats, eggs, poultry, legumes, and soy products are great sources of this vitamin.
4. Vitamin B3
This vitamin is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that allows brain cells and other nervous system cells to communicate. Having too little serotonin has been linked to depression.
In other words, a deficiency in B3 can impair levels of serotonin and have a negative impact on your mood. Therefore, if you’re feeling depressed, it’s recommended to get a daily B3 dose of 20 mg, although you might need a higher dose if your depression is severe. This vitamin can be found in mushrooms, peanuts, poultry, fish, peas, potatoes, pasta, milk, and cheese.

5. Magnesium

Magnesium helps with muscle tension, relaxation, constipation, and also plays a key role in the production of brain hormones. Still, nearly half of American adults consume less than the required amount of magnesium.
Foods that are rich in magnesium include dried beans, nuts, dark leafy greens, and whole grains. However, you can also take a supplement of 320-450 mg each day.
6. Vitamin C
A lot of research has been done over the years that have found a link between vitamin C and mood, as well as cognitive functioning, especially in the elderly. These studies have shown a significant reduction in anxiety and depression when sufficient levels of vitamin C were taken, either in through diet or supplements. 
Since it’s a water-soluble vitamin and not stored by the body, it must be taken regularly to ensure that healthy levels are maintained. It’s recommended that we get a minimum of 100 mg per day and no more than 2,000 mg per day, since it can cause diarrhea.
Foods that are high in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, kiwis, broccoli, tomatoes, and parsley.

7. Vitamin B12

This vitamin helps to boost mood, energy, and depression, which is why many people with mood disorders such as depression are often deficient in it.
An estimated 15% of American adults are vitamin B12 deficient. To keep your vitamin B12 levels adequate enough, add sardines, beef liver, lamb, eggs, mackerel, feta cheese, and cottage cheese to your diet. If you’re a vegetarian or a vegan, you can get it in supplement form.
8. Folate
This vital nutrient, which goes by the name of folic acid or vitamin B9, helps the body to create new cells. This is why it’s extremely important for pregnant women to get their fair share of it. In fact, pregnant women experiencing a vitamin B9 deficiency are at risk of having a baby with neural tube defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida. Additionally, a deficiency in this nutrient can cause depression.
With your doctor’s permission, aim for around 400 mcg per day of folic acid. It can be found in leafy green vegetables, breads, citrus fruits, beans, rice, pastas, and cereal.

9. Iron

The biggest signs of iron deficiency are low energy, mood changes, and chronic fatigue. If these symptoms sound familiar to you, you might be one of the almost 10% of women or 2% of men who suffer from a deficiency.
The recommended daily amount of iron is 18mg for women of childbearing years and 25 mg for pregnant women. However, if iron supplements aren’t your thing, you can get this nutrient from animal protein, lentils, liver, spinach, soy foods, milk, and cereal.
10. Chromium
Humans require a very small amount of this metallic element, though anywhere from 25-50% of American adults are mildly deficient in it. Chromium helps to balance our blood sugar levels which, in turn, stabilizes our mood.
If you’re consuming chromium in a supplement it’s recommended that you get 200 mcg per day. However, it can also be found in animal proteins and potatoes.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.    

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LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE

We've so many times heard the proverb that laughter is the best medicine. We also have cartoons to depict the same. It is something like when you smile, another smiles and soon there will be miles and miles of smiles just because you smiled. It is the same with laughter. Laughing not only helps to cheer you up emotionally by boosting your mood, but also has complementary physical outcomes that are desirable. 

Some interesting and fascinating facts about laughter.
1. You are more likely to laugh around others - According to a medical research, it is a proven fact that laughter is generated by a person rather than a funny situation or a joke that you hear. It is the image of that person in your mind which is funny and everything he/she does or says seems to be funny for you. This is why you will probably laugh among a set of people rather than laughing all by yourself.

2. Fake laughter - A medical research conducted by  a Professor  has readily proven that the human brain has the ability to differentiate between a fake laughter and a real one. So, if you are in a group of people and somebody is trying to laugh forcibly and deliberately, then your brain is able to identify that person easily.

3. Laughter is contagious - As per the famous saying, when you laugh then the whole world laughs with you. It is a true thing and laughter is actually contagious as it tends to regulate a part in your brain when you hear others laughing.

4/ Burns calories - Laughter is a good source of a physical workout as well as it burns calories when you laugh out loud. Laughing for around 10 to 15 minutes a day burns about 10 to 40 calories.

5. Leads to healthier relationships - It is a proven fact that laughing together with any individual help to strengthen the emotional bond that you share with that person. People who laugh together usually are able to trust each other more and their relationship lasts for a longer period.

6. Mood and Energy booster - Laughter is an instant booster if you are emotionally wrecked or suffering from a bad mood. It helps to cheer you up and make you feel good and confident about yourself. Additionally, it also helps to boost the energy levels if you are low on energy.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.  PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO VIEW MY BLOG-                      

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IMPORTANCE OF VITAMINS D AND B-12 TO US.

We're what we eat. But often, due to the pressures of work, we often forget to consume the vital vitamins, minerals and other nutrients needed by our bodies to keep us healthy. Vitamin D is called the sunshine vitamin, as basically our body can't produce it, but when we're exposed to the Sun's rays, our body is able to make this precious vitamin to keep our bones strong. 

As for Vitamin B 12, mostly as we age, we're deficient in this vitamin, all the more so, if you're a vegetarian. This vitamin is needed to produce red blood cells in our body.

Listed below are some other benefits of these vitamins-
Vitamin B 12-
1)Boosts Energy -Vitamin B12  keeps your cells fed, happy, and healthy. Without it, your cells get hungry and you feel weak, tired, and like you’re dragging all the time. The nutrient releases energy into the cell and provides you with the appropriate balance you need for thinking and moving throughout your day.

2. Protects the Heart -Our heart and the cardiovascular system needs B12. One of its jobs is to remove a dangerous protein called homocysteine from the blood. If homocysteine is allowed to roam through blood, it damages your arteries leading to inflammation and heart disease. Get enough B12 and you’ll keep homocysteine levels down and your heart happy.

3. Your Bones Need It -Studies have found patients with osteoporosis have higher levels of homocysteine and low levels of B12 than people with strong, healthy bones. If you suffer from osteoporosis or similar bone issues, speak to your doctor about getting your vitamin B12 levels tested.

4. Prevents Nerve Damage-Your nerves have a protective covering to keep them safe from toxins and free radicals in your blood. Without these coverings, called myelin sheaths, exposed nerves get damaged and may even die. These dead nerves disrupt signals to and from the brain and may play a role in nerve-related conditions. Vitamin B 12 supports the way your body replenishes this protective covering.

5. Improves Mood and Outlook- Your brain uses a chemical called serotonin to regulate your mood. If you aren’t getting enough B12, you may find yourself feeling down. One study of diabetic patients experiencing side effects of depression from Metformin found those who took B12 enjoyed a more positive outlook. 

6. Protects Brain Health-  Researchers have noted Alzheimer's patients have much lower levels of B12 than those of a similar age who have sharp, clear memory. In the same way B12 helps protect nerve cells, it helps protect the myelin sheaths of brain cells that are often lacking in Alzheimer’s patients. Some research suggests that cobalamin deficiency may cause a type of dementia in elderly patients that is in fact reversible with the right nutritional intervention. 

7. Keeps You Looking and Feeling Young - Aging happens when your cells begin to wear and tear, and they age faster when your DNA doesn’t replicate correctly. Many factors can affect DNA replication, like free radicals, toxins in the blood, high blood sugar, and high levels of omega-6 fats in your diet. B12 supports DNA health, thereby keeping your cells younger. And when your cells are young, you look and feel young too. 

 Importance of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is very important for strong bones. Calcium and phosphorus are essential for developing the structure and strength of your bones, and you need vitamin D to absorb these minerals. Even if you eat foods that contain a lot of calcium and phosphorus, without enough vitamin D, you can’t absorb them into your body. Vitamin D is important for general good health, and researchers now are discovering that vitamin D may be important for many other reasons outside of good bone health. 
Some of the functions of the body that vitamin D helps with include:
1) Vitamin D reduces the risk of developing multiple sclerosis, heart diseases and flu.
2) Our muscles need this vitamin for proper functions.
3) for proper functioning of the respiratory system, healthy lungs and airway, as those suffering from asthma, have less Vitamin D !
4) It fights depression
5) Fights certain types of cancer- prostate, breast, colon cancers
6) It is needed for the proper development of the brain.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.
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