Dark Chocolate Helps Reduce Cravings

Research carried out at the University of Copenhagen found dark chocolate is more filling than milk chocolate. It also helps reduce cravings for sweet, fatty and salty foods. Therefore including dark chocolate in your diet may help with weight control. Chocolate is high in antioxidants that have a range of known health benefits, particularly for the cardiovascular system and the brain. Dark chocolate is a lot higher in these beneficial compounds. Most dark chocolate is lower in sugar than milk chocolate, and some brands are dairy free. That means the average person can include some in their diet regularly and reap the health benefits. The greater the percentage of cocoa solids, the higher the antioxidant content, so aim for 70% cocoa or higher. A lot of people feel guilty about including chocolate in their diet and feel like they should be avoiding it if they're trying to lose weight. This study brings great news and shows that indulging in your favorite treat can benefit your weight long term. It involved 16 young men who were given either milk chocolate or dark chocolate. Those who ate dark chocolate ended up eating significantly less at a subsequent meal. This is important because your weight isn't a product of the last meal you ate; it's a result of how you've been eating for the past few months at least. Many patients come to see me because they are desperate to lose weight. I usually suggest they include cocoa or cacao powder in their diet. It has the delicious, rich chocolate taste we crave, with the antioxidants, but minus the fat and sugar. Adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to a protein powder smoothie for breakfast can help minimize cravings and reduce your appetite for the remainder of the day. Reference