For patients who have a sweet-tooth, there is great news: eating dark chocolate is actually good for you. It’s true, this slightly sweetened, yet bitter chocolate variety has been dentist approved due to the many health benefits surrounding dark chocolate.
In today’s fun and informative blog post, Dr. Brad Greenfield, your Clarkston, MI dentist shares why dark chocolate proves beneficial for your smile and overall health.
Improve Your Dental and Overall by Eating Dark Chocolate
- It’s theobromine rich. If you’re looking to fortify your enamel, eating dark chocolate is surely the way to go. Theobromine, which is an alkaloid naturally found in cacao, has been known to decrease the risk of developing cavities, if paired with sound oral care habits. Additionally, theobromine also serves as stimulant that can help keep you alert.
- Helps your heart. According to your Clarkston, MI dentist, by eating one ounce of dark chocolate two to three times weekly, you can improve your heart health. Studies have confirmed that dark chocolate improves blood flow, decreases blood pressure, and aids in the prevention of blood clot formation.
- Controls blood sugar. Can you think of a more delicious way to ward off diabetes than by eating more dark chocolate? Flavonoids within dark chocolate help the body use insulin efficiently; plus, dark chocolate has a very low glycemic index, which means your blood sugar doesn’t spike from eating a square or two.
- Antioxidants a-plenty. Dark chocolate has a number of antioxidants that remove free radicals from your body. Oftentimes, cancerous cells activate in the presence of excessive free radicals as we age. However, by incorporating more antioxidant-rich foods, you can stave off some types of cancer.
- Contains lots vitamins and minerals. Potassium, copper, magnesium, and iron have been found naturally in dark chocolate. The right levels of copper and potassium helps prevent stokes, iron wards off anemia, and magnesium helps prevent diabetes.
Lake Orion Family Dentistry Shares Dietary Dental Health Advice
If you would like more information about dietary choices that help maintain both your dental and overall health in check, talk to Dr. Greenfield. He can explain foods your body needs in order to support and healthy smile. To schedule an appointment with your for services, patient forms, and smile gallery. We happily serve patients in Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, Lake Orion, and neighboring communities.
