Do you believe that chocolate is drenched in sugar and milk fat? But it isn’t always true.
Since the cacao solids (dark chocolate) are filled with antioxidants and chemicals including anandamide (the “bliss chemical”).
In ancient times, like that of the Aztecs and Incas, chocolate wasn’t always sweetened. It was the Spanish who brought it to Europe and from then took place the evolution of the various chocolate types.
However, considering the times we are living in, everyone chooses to switch to a healthy lifestyle and an even healthier diet. Every day, chocolatiers are making chocolates with less sugar and without dairy. This means a cleaner, healthier, and less cloying experience.
But that doesn’t mean that milk is eradicated. A large number of these chocolatiers are emulating the milk chocolate with dairy-free milk like hazelnut, cashew nut, oats, etc.
As a matter of fact, chocolate comes from a practically vegan plant. And the chocolate we usually eat is processed and loaded with sugar and milk and a few other additives. In other words, dark and raw chocolates are also referred to as Plant Based Chocolate. Take a look at the health benefits of Vegan Chocolates:
Nutrient-Rich
Cacao powder, unlike cocoa powder, is rich in vitamins and some minerals as when they are processed at high temperatures, they keep most of their nutrients to themselves. They consist of vitamins, like vitamin C, minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, copper, and potassium, proteins, fibre, and other nutrients which are energy boosters and improve your mood.
In addition, they have antioxidants, which are usually found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts. Plant Based chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants, even more than the levels in berries. That gives it anti-aging properties.
Improvises Brain Function
As it has similar properties as caffeine, it is said to boost the brain’s function. However, not being as strong as coffee, it still works wonders without making your body shaky or dizzy.
Improves your mood
It increases levels of serotonin hormone (aka, happiness hormone).
Improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure
Vegan chocolate helps reduce high blood pressure by improving Nitric Oxide Levels. These nitric oxide levels in the body help reduce blood pressure by enhancing the function of the blood vessels.
Improvises Heart Health
Helps in lowering the bad (LDL) cholesterol and improves blood pressure. The benefit of vegan chocolates is the amount of vitamin E, magnesium, and copper. As it’s known, magnesium improves blood flow, whereas copper ensures blood cells get oxygen.
Read More: Why is the world shifting to a more plant based lifestyle?
