Dr Ramji Mehrotra | Is Chocolate Good for the Heart Health?

According to researchers, chocolate in moderate quantities is good for the heart and brain. It has been observed that regular consumption of chocolate reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke by one-third.

Dr Ramji Mehrotra, best heart surgeon in India further details that Chocolate has been found to keep blood pressure and diabetes under control. As high blood pressure and diabetes are known risk factors for heart disease, it can be inferred that chocolate reduces the risk.

Chocolate contains antioxidants called flavanols, which increase the body’s production of nitric oxide. Higher nitric oxide leads to the stabilisation of blood pressure and increase of blood flow through the arteries.

Chocolate also has other benefits such as improving memory, preventing blood clots and lowering cholesterol. It has also been effective in controlling chronic inflammation and preventing a few types of cancer.

Dark chocolate is especially good for heart health. It is recommended to consume chocolate with the highest cocoa content of 70% to 85%. Around 30gm of dark chocolate per person every day is ideal.

According, to Dr Ramji Mehrotra, - it is very important to select the right brand of chocolate with the correct ingredients, as most of the chocolate bars and drinks available in the market today have a high content of sugar, fat and calories. These not only cause obesity but can lead to other heart related issues as well.

For the maximum health benefits, consume chocolate in moderation, preferably dark chocolate.

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