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Is Dark Chocolate Good For Prostate

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May Aid Weight Control In Many Surprising Ways

9 reasons to eat dark chocolate everyday

Somewhat paradoxically, cocoa intake, even in the form of chocolate, may help you control your weight.

Its thought that cocoa may help by regulating the use of energy, reducing appetite and inflammation and increasing fat oxidation and feelings of fullness .

A population study found that people who consumed chocolate more frequently had a lower BMI than people who ate it less often, despite the former group also eating more calories and fat .

Additionally, a weight loss study using low-carbohydrate diets found that a group given 42 grams or about 1.5 ounces of 81% cocoa chocolate per day lost weight faster than the regular diet group .

However, other studies have found that chocolate consumption increases weight. Yet, many of them did not differentiate between the type of chocolate consumed white and milk chocolate do not have the same benefits as dark .

Overall, it appears that cocoa and cocoa-rich products may be helpful in achieving weight loss or maintaining weight, but further studies are needed.

Summary Cocoa products are associated with a lower weight, and the addition of cocoa to your diet may help achieve faster weight loss. However, more research is needed on this topic to determine exactly what type and how much cocoa is ideal.

Dark Chocolate Boosts Brainpower

Have a big meeting, an exam, or have dinner with the family. The drinking of dark chocolate to give the brain a short-term boost, increase alertness, as well as, within a two-to-three-hour, in a study by the University of Nottingham has found. Flavanols are one of the most important parts of dark chocolate, the blood vessels dilate, allowing more oxygen and blood to reach all of the important areas of the brain, which can help in the fight against fatigue and aging. Did the participants in the study, consuming kingdom? cocoa is a refreshing drink, but you can use any dark chocolate on its own, or with all foods that are high in flavanols, such as red wine, green tea, and berries.

You Need Protection From Daily Radicals

The high levels of flavonoids potent antioxidants help protect cells and tissues from damage by free radicals. These radicals are unstable molecules that alter and weaken cells and often come from stress, poor diet, and the inevitable aging.

Dark chocolate also contains significant amounts of minerals magnesium and copper.

A 1.5-ounce bar provides 15 percent of the recommended daily allowance of magnesium. Energy production, strong bones, relaxed muscles, and effective nerve transmission are all supported by Magnesium. That same bar also contains 34 percent RDA of copper. Copper helps the body create neurotransmitters and is associated with a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease.

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Five Foods To Protect Your Prostate

Good news if youre worried about your prostate health: What you eat can make a difference. There is plenty of strong evidence that good nutrition and an active lifestyle can reduce the likelihood of prostate cancer and slow its progression, says Mitchell Sokoloff M.D., Chair of the Department of Urology and Professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

There are a few categorical changes you can make to your diet that make a big difference in overall health, as well as prostate health. What you eat can potentially disadvantage your prostate health e.g. foods you might want to avoid or protect the prostate in various ways. The Science of Living Well, Beyond Cancer recommends a diet that is high in colorful vegetables, low in sugar and processed carbohydrates, and moderate in animal-based protein . Some might refer to this as a version of the Mediterranean Diet. PCF-funded epidemiologist Lorelei Mucci, M.P.H., Sc.D., at Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health notes that people in Mediterranean countries not only eat more vegetables and fruits they also eat less fatty foods, processed food, and red meat categories that can increase insulin resistance, increase inflammation, raise cardiovascular risk and be a part of a dietary pattern that may increase obesity, as well.

Dark Chocolate May Protect Your Skin

11 AMAZING FOODS THAT CAN IMPROVE YOUR SEX LIFE

In addition to sun protection, you can chew with dark chocolate every day to protect your skin from the harmful effects of ULTRAVIOLET rays, according to a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. But that is not the only ancient, dark chocolate,-you need to be specific to the product while maintaining a high-Instagram-level .

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Powerful Source Of Antioxidants

ORAC stands for oxygen radical absorbance capacity. Its a measure of the antioxidant activity of foods.

Basically, researchers set a bunch of free radicals against a sample of a food and see how well the antioxidants in the food can disarm the free radicals.

The biological relevance of ORAC values is questioned, as its measured in a test tube and may not have the same effect in the body.

However, its worth mentioning that raw, unprocessed cocoa beans are among the highest-scoring foods that have been tested.

Dark chocolate is loaded with organic compounds that are biologically active and function as antioxidants. These include polyphenols, flavanols and catechins, among others.

One study showed that cocoa and dark chocolate had more antioxidant activity, polyphenols, and flavanols than any other fruits tested, which included blueberries and acai berries .

Summary

Cocoa and dark chocolate have a wide variety of powerful antioxidants. In fact, they have way more than most other foods.

Summary

The bioactive compounds in cocoa may improve blood flow in the arteries and cause a small but statistically significant decrease in blood pressure.

Dark Chocolate: A Sacred Food With Healing Benefits

Throughout history, dark chocolate has been hailed as a health tonic. This is especially true throughout Mesoamerican cultures, who held the belief that the cacao bean was a sacred food handed down by the gods to provide stamina, heal numerous diseases, and reduce fatigue .

In fact, the effects of cacao were thought to be so powerful that consumption was reserved specifically for priests, high government officials, military officers and great warriors. It was considered unsuitable for women, children, and the lower classes due to its potency.

What exactly is it about dark chocolate that makes it such a cherished health food? Lets dive into the research-backed facts behind its benefits.

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What Are Chocolate’s Health Benefits

Though more research on the health benefits of chocolate is definitely needed, numerous studies over the years have found chocolate to have a variety of positive effects on the body. Particularly the heart seems to benefit from a daily dose of chocolate’s flavanols, as research has shown regular consumption of dark chocolate or cocoa powder to reduce blood pressure2, increase blood flow3, and reduce the risk of stroke after being fermented by gut microbes into anti-inflammatory compounds.4 Dark chocolate may also be a delicious alternative to a midday cup of coffee, as its stimulant effects have been shown to increase alertness and improve attention.5 Flavanols may even help keep your memory sharp as you age

So, again, if you want to reap these potential health benefits with some dark chocolate, aim for a bar with the highest percentage of cacao that still tastes good to you. We’ve selected some bars to help you work up to 90%, some of which with additional healthy ingredients to keep things interesting.

Chocolate: Food As Medicine

Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Numerous research reviews support that dark chocolate intake may positively influence oxidative stress, inflammation, vessel function, immunity, detoxification, and nitric oxide production and may exert protective effects on blood pressure, insulin resistance, lipid profile and platelet activation

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Your Mind Can Benefit From Dark Chocolate

Flavonols are amazingly good for brain health. They can increase brain cell function, protect vulnerable brain cells, and stimulate brain cell regeneration, perhaps by strengthening the protective protein effect, according to a review published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

But these benefits can have an even greater impact: Flavonoids found in dark chocolate may one day help treat non-neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimers. One study in the Journal of Alzheimers Disease found a link between eating chocolate and reducing the risk of depression, possibly due to the protective effects of cocoa flavanols.

Issues Concerning The Prostate Gland

Due to its location the prostate can affect urination and sexual functions.

  • Prostatitis is an inflammation or infection which causes burning and pain during urination, the urgent need to urinate, and painful ejaculation.
  • BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia is the enlargement of the prostate. Men find it difficult to urinate because the prostate is pressing on the urethra. It is believed 75% of men over 60 suffer with this condition.

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How Chocolate Can Affect Cancer

During the presentation, he noted that some types of chocolate may be somewhat beneficial to our overall health. Chocolate, we learned, contains a compound called flavonoids and is found in cocoa beans. He noted that these flavonoids are a true antioxidant that may help prevent or slow the damage to cells caused by cancer.1

Our speaker quickly pointed out that not all chocolate is created equal. For the most benefit, you would have to eat a large amount of dark chocolate, which has a higher percentage of cocoa. Dark chocolate is defined as having at least 60% cocoa with little to no added sugar. His recommendation, when enjoying chocolate, was to consume high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa.

The best way to eat dark chocolate is to do so without any added ingredients such as caramel, peanut butter, marshmallow, etc. to avoid the extra sugar.

We also learned that dark chocolate is believed to help reduce the risks of heart attacks and stroke, improve blood flow to the brain, and improve mood and symptoms of depression.

Lindt Excellence Supreme Dark

The Best Foods For A Long Life

Lindt makes a fantastic super-dark chocolate bar that is 90% cocoa solids. Thanks to the presence of real vanilla beans, extracted with bourbon, its rich taste is complemented by the airy notes of vanilla oils.

The fiber content is high and the sugar content is low, making this a great choice if you want an extremely dark chocolate.

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How To Choose The Best Dark Chocolate

Obviously, not all chocolate is created equal. To get the most benefits associated with dark chocolate, you want to steer clear of any of the candy bar varieties and be sure to choose a bar that contains at least a 75 percent cacao content. This will ensure there are minimal added sugars, so you get the bittersweet goodness without the damaging effects of sugar.

What Foods Should You Avoid If You Have An Enlarged Prostate

While the exact cause of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is not entirely understood, we do know that what you eat can have a big influence on the health of your prostate. While some foods can help to reduce the risk of developing BPH, as well as lessening the severity of your symptoms, there are others which can actually aggravate the problem including:

  • Red meat
  • Dairy
  • Alcohol.

Unfortunately gentlemen, as we can see, it is often some of our favourite foods that can cause inflammation flare-ups and bladder problems however, knowing the main culprits could help you to manage your symptoms better.

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Date Walnut And Dark Chocolate Cookies

This recipe was specially crafted to support cancer prevention and survival. It adheres to . Learn more about our .

This recipe borrows the natural sweetness of Medjool dates, along with the rich flavors of walnuts and dark chocolate, to craft a delicious, healthy version of this classic cookie. Enjoy this sweet treat with your loved ones during the holiday season, pack them into a lunch box any day, or serve them with fresh fruit or sorbet the next time you host dinner guests.

  • 1/2cup soft dairy-free margarine spread, at room temperature
  • 1tsp.vanilla extract
  • 1cup white whole wheat flour
  • 1/2cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2cup finely chopped walnuts
  • 1/2cup diced, pitted Medjool dates
  • 1/2cup dark chocolate chips or broken dark chocolate pieces

Makes 20 servings .

Choose The Mediterranean Diet

Is Eating Dark Chocolate Actually Healthy? DOCTOR’S THOUGHTS!

A healthy diet for everyone, the Mediterranean diet is especially beneficial for prostate health.

Fresh vegetables, fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil, and fresh fruits, along with whole grains are all heart healthy and prostate healthy. Nuts and avocados are better than carbs and fatty foods, therefore reduce the amount of red meat and processed foods.

One tablespoon of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or Italian dressings reduce insulin levels and inflammations.

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Proven Health Benefits Of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is loaded with nutrients that can positively affect your health.

Made from the seed of the cacao tree, its one of the best sources of antioxidants you can find.

Studies show that dark chocolate can improve your health and lower the risk of heart disease.

Here are 7 health benefits of dark chocolate or cocoa that are supported by science.

If you buy quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, then its quite nutritious.

It contains a decent amount of soluble fiber and is loaded with minerals.

A 100-gram bar of dark chocolate with 7085% cocoa contains :

  • 11 grams of fiber
  • 67% of the DV for iron
  • 58% of the DV for magnesium
  • 89% of the DV for copper
  • 98% of the DV for manganese

In addition, it has plenty of potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium.

Of course, 100 grams is a fairly large amount and not something you should be consuming daily. These nutrients also come with 600 calories and moderate amounts of sugar.

For this reason, dark chocolate is best consumed in moderation.

The fatty acid profile of cocoa and dark chocolate is also good. The fats consist mostly of oleic acid , stearic acid, and palmitic acid.

The stearic acid has a neutral effect on body cholesterol. Palmitic acid can raise cholesterol levels, but it only makes up one-third of the total fat calories.

Summary

Choose Your Daily Dose Wisely

The darker the chocolate, the better. The reason dark chocolate gets all the accolades is that it contains lower added sugar and fats than milk or white chocolate. In addition, its higher in beneficial flavonoids.

Those with the highest proportion of cacao are better, even when it comes to powder for hot cocoa.

Choose a bar with a minimum 70% cacao, and just remember even the darkest of the dark chocolates must be consumed in moderation.

There you have it. Science says a daily dose of dark chocolate can be good for your health. No need to wait for a special celebration. Enjoy some today.

Want to learn more scientific tips and tricks about eating right and aging well? Here is your FREE A-Z guide on Living and Aging the Way You Want. Click the icon and get your copy today!

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What Keeps Your Prostate Healthy

Following a heart-healthy, low animal fat, low carbohydrate diet is key to cancer prevention, as are exercise, weight management and stress reduction.

Enjoy fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants to protect your body from cancer-causing oxidants.

Soy and green tea may be especially good for the prostate..

Bowel Problems When To Seek Help

Foods to eat to prevent prostate cancer

Radiotherapy to the prostate gland can change the way your bowel works. Bowel motions may be more frequent and loose. Changing what you eat can help with this.

Radiotherapy to the prostate gland can affect tissue and other organs in the pelvic area, causing more long term side effects. Speak to your doctor if you:

  • need to poo at night
  • need to rush to the loo to have a bowel movement, or you dont make it in time
  • have bleeding from your back passage
  • have other bowel symptoms that interfere with you living an active full life

You may not be able to follow a healthy balanced diet completely if you have these types of changes. Speak to your doctor or dietitian for help and advice about how to adapt your diet.

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Health And Nutrition Benefits Of Cocoa Powder

Cocoa is thought to have first been used by the Maya civilization of Central America.

It was introduced to Europe by Spanish conquerors in the 16th century and quickly became popular as a health-promoting medicine.

Cocoa powder is made by crushing cocoa beans and removing the fat or cocoa butter.

Today, cocoa is most famous for its role in chocolate production. However, modern research has revealed that it does indeed contain important compounds that can benefit your health.

Here are 11 health and nutrition benefits of cocoa powder.

Rich In Polyphenols That Provide Several Health Benefits

Polyphenols are naturally occurring antioxidants found in foods like fruits, vegetables, tea, chocolate and wine.

They have been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced inflammation, better blood flow, lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels .

Cocoa is one of the richest sources of polyphenols. Its especially abundant in flavanols, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

However, processing and heating cocoa can cause it to lose its beneficial properties. Its also often treated with alkaline to reduce bitterness, which results in a 60% decrease in flavanol content .

So while cocoa is a great source of polyphenols, not all products containing cocoa will provide the same benefits.

Summary Cocoa is rich in polyphenols, which have significant health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved cholesterol levels. However, processing cocoa into chocolate or other products can substantially decrease the polyphenol content.

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