#BAD11 Stacey Collins
The internet is encumbered with negative articles about the way chocolate will ravage your body and when combined with Kate Moss’ ‘Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels’ saying, many feel that chocolate should be a once a year Easter treat. So, when once in a blue moon an article arises that promotes the effects chocolate has on your mind, body and soul, it is the perfect excuse for a visit to the nearest corner shop for that Twirl you’ve had your eye on for the past week (or in my case, past few hours).
Ok, we all know that chocolate has mostly a positive effect on both the mind and soul. It is renowned for its ability to trigger a release of endorphins which has the nickname Happy Hormone. It has also been reported that chocolate releases a chemical in the brain which is the same chemical produced when you’re in love. But, what positive effects does chocolate have on your body?
A study by the University of Reading has shown that dark chocolate may be able to improve your ability to see in low-contrast situations, such as poor weather. The study also found that dark chocolate may make your brain sharper and has previously been known to lower blood pressure and have favourable effects on platelet function, insulin sensitivity and lower blood pressure.
The study was carried out amongst 30 men and women aged between 18 and 25 and focused on vision and thinking skills. The participants were made to try both white and dark chocolate (why is it never milk chocolate that is found to be beneficial towards the body?). It was the flavanols that are found in dark chocolate, and traced in white chocolate, that are the cause for the positive effects. They are known to increase the blood flow to the brain and the study also showed an indication that the blood flow to the retina of the eye is also increased. These flavanols are also found in grapes, apples and red wine. Well, it seems evident here that science is telling us to treat ourselves to a glass of wine and a bar of dark chocolate.
I know what my plans for tonight are going to be.
The study was carried out amongst 30 men and women aged between 18 and 25 and focused on vision and thinking skills. The participants were made to try both white and dark chocolate (why is it never milk chocolate that is found to be beneficial towards the body?). It was the flavanols that are found in dark chocolate, and traced in white chocolate, that are the cause for the positive effects. They are known to increase the blood flow to the brain and the study also showed an indication that the blood flow to the retina of the eye is also increased. These flavanols are also found in grapes, apples and red wine. Well, it seems evident here that science is telling us to treat ourselves to a glass of wine and a bar of dark chocolate.
I know what my plans for tonight are going to be.
No comments:
Post a Comment