Ingredient Spotlight: Dark Chocolate

I think the Chocolate Lovers is the biggest club in the world. Dark, luscious, sensual, fragrant, mood boosting and actually good for us, it soothes our sadness, lifts our spirits, and sometimes it's the only thing that keeps us together. Well, keeps me together anyway! But there is more to it than an instant pleasure boost.

The primary ingredient of dark chocolate is cacao bean, coming from Theobroma cacao tree, and is grown within 20 degrees of equator.

Cacao powder is packed with flavonoids, which help lower blood pressure, improve blood flow to the brain and heart, and help prevent blood clots and increase insulin sensitivity, reducing risk of diabetes. It is high in fiber, making it good for the gut. Cacao also helps reduce inflammation. It is high in iron, potassium, protein and magnesium and full of antioxidants. Polyphenols in cocoa, may reduce your risk of neuro-degenerative diseases by improving brain function and blood flow. It has cancer protective properties and is anti-bacterial.

Cacao also has positive effects on mood, reduces stress and improves contentment by helping convert tryptophan into mood stabilizing serotonin.

So indulge in 1.6 ounces of dark chocolate (about a size of a small protein bar) every day and soak up the benefits.

You can also enjoy the high quality organic dark chocolate in On-Guard, and combine it's benefits with other amazing super-foods for twice the self-care!