High in antioxidants known as flavonoids, dark chocolate delivers an awesome nutritional wallop. Studies show that modest amounts — no more than one or two ounces — eaten every day can reduce risk of blood clots, lower blood pressure, increase endurance, improve skin quality and even sharpen problem-solving skills.

But put down that candy bar — notice the emphasis on “dark'' chocolate, which has less sugar and two to three times more flavonoids than milk chocolate (white chocolate has none at all).
Chocolate contains several nutrients, including potassium, iron and calcium. It also contains vitamins A1, B1, B2, C, D and E.
Chocolate contains magnesium. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to PMS (premenstrual syndrome), heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and joint problems.
Chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a mild mood elevator that can make you feel better emotionally.
Another reason why chocolate can make you feel good is that it contains tryptophan, an amino acid that raises the serotonin levels in the brain.

Serotonin is a natural stress reliever and antidepressant. Serotonin can also help decrease your appetite, lessening your cravings for sweet and starchy foods.
Endorphins, a natural pain reducer and mood elevator, are released by the brain to help you deal with pain.

Endorphins are also produced when you exercise, which is why people feel good after a rigorous workout.

Chocolate, which stimulates the production of endorphins, can give you a feeling similar to a “runner's high''.
The cocoa butter in chocolate contains a mono-unsaturated fat called oleic acid, which can help raise your “good cholesterol'' levels.

Also, chocolate has been found to have no effect on “bad cholesterol'', which means it will neither increase nor decrease it.
Eating chocolate could help increase antioxidant levels in your blood. Antioxidants help your body's cells resist damage caused by free radicals.

They also help prevent heart disease and fight cancerous elements.

Keeping all these benefits in mind, who are we to say no to chocolate, right, girls? Here we have some exotic ways to indulge your chocoholic dreams.

Ahlaam Ali

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