Nutrition

Benefits of Chocolate

Chocolate

-Helps your heart to stay healthy

Lots of studies reveal that the flavonoids in chocolate can help your veins and arteries to stay supple. Studies on over 114,000 participants served with dark chocolate a week showed that their risk of getting a heart attack was reduced by about 37 percent while the chances of getting a stroke were 29 percent less when they had a higher consumption of chocolate.

-Helps to improve memory in old age

Research has shown that when elderly people were given specially prepared cocoa extracts which was high in flavanols, their cognitive function greatly improved. The only problem is that when it comes to eating chocolate, the percentage of those cocoa flavanols is much reduced due to the processing and the addition of eggs, sugar and milk.

– It can help to avoid sunburn

One study conducted in London found that women who were given chocolate with a high flavanol content were able to withstand double the amount of UV light on their skins without burning, compared to those on lower doses.

-It may help lower cholesterol levels

The Journal of Nutrition carries an interesting article about the results of a study done to determine whether dark chocolate could have any effect on the LDL cholesterol levels. They found that when subjects were given bars of dark chocolate with plant sterols and flavanols, they were getting lower scores on their cholesterol levels.

-It may help people with Alzheimer’s disease

As we know, the nerve pathways to the brain get damaged when Alzheimer’s disease strikes, causing severe loss in certain mental functions. It is fascinating to read about how one extract from cocoa, called lavado, can actually reduce the damage done to these vital pathways.

-Very nutritious

Did you know that with a high cocoa content (75 percent to 85 percent) you are getting a very nutritious snack? Take the typical 100 gram chocolate bar. It has almost all of your RDA for copper and manganese. It contains over half your magnesium RDA and about two thirds (67 percent) of your RDA for iron. It also has about 10 percent of fibre. There is also lots of zinc, selenium and potassium too.

– Helps to lower blood pressure

You may not know it but having the right amount of NO (Nitric Oxide) in your body can help your arteries to relax. That will, in turn help to take some of the pressure off them and the result is a lower BP count. Just another benefit of the dark chocolate flavanols which help to produce this vital Nitric Oxide.

Source: thebftonline.com

Nutrition

Benefits of fresh cow milk

COW milk is a nutrient-rich milk produced by cows that has been a dietary staple for
humans for centuries. It is known for its rich source of essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, vitamins (B12 and D), and minerals. Cow milk is considered healthy for many individuals, providing benefits for bone health, muscle repair, and overall growth.

– Promotes strong bones

Cow milk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, both of which are essential for maintaining bone density and strength. Regular consumption of milk helps prevent bone disorders like osteoporosis, especially in older adults, as it supports healthy bone development and repair.

– Boosts muscle growth and repair

Cow milk is rich in high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an ideal post-exercise drink to help with muscle repair and growth. The protein in milk also helps sustain muscle mass, which is important as we age.

– Supports heart health

Cow milk contains potassium, a mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure by balancing sodium levels in the body. Drinking milk may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by promoting optimal heart function and regulating blood pressure.

-Aids in weight management

The protein and fat content in cow milk can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake by keeping you full for longer. Additionally, studies have shown that the conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) found in milk may help reduce body fat in some individuals.

– Improves hydration

Cow milk is composed of approximately 90 per cent water, making it a hydrating beverage. Along with providing essential nutrients, milk helps to maintain fluid balance in the body, which is important for overall cellular functions and metabolism.

Source: www.ndtv.com/ health