A new study shows that teens who consume significant quantities of chocolate have lower levels of abdominal fat than those who did not.
Say what?
Researchers at the University of Granada found a correlation between higher chocolate consumption and lower body fat levels. Although chocolate contains fat and sugar, it also contains high levels of flavonoids, which have anti- inflammatory, antioxidant, antithrombotic, and antihypertensive properties, which help prevent heart disease.
More good news on the health benefits of chocolate include a lower risk of strokes in women, lower blood pressure, and an increase in insulin sensitivity in diabetics. Its ability to increase blood flow protects against blood clots, and can improve eyesight by directing more blood flow to the retina.
So, next time that sweet tooth kicks in, go ahead and indulge yourself in some rich, dark chocolate. Your tummy may thank you in more ways than one!
photo: Glasshouse Images
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Tags: anti-inflammatory, benefits of chocolate, body fat levels, chocolate, chocolate consumption, chocolate consumption linked to lower abdominal fat in teens, dark chocolate, flavonoids, heart disease
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