Growing up, kids hear from their parents, “eating chocolate is bad for you,” and “chocolate is unhealthy.” Well, the sugary treat may be harmful, but what if it also had benefits? An often-overlooked fact is that chocolate can improve heart health, balance the immune system, combat diabetes, enhance brain function, boost athletic performance, and reduce stress.

A study showed that women who associated chocolate with celebration had a higher success rate with weight maintenance than those who associated it with guilt. Those who feel guilty about their chocolate cravings and try to cut out chocolate completely usually feel an increased craving for it.

Dark chocolate contains powerful antioxidants. One of the most beneficial is a flavonoid called epicatechin. Flavonols are compounds found in plants that protect against cell damage caused by free radicals and fight inflammation.

Dark chocolate has been proven to increase heart health. The antioxidants lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of blood clotting by improving circulation to the heart. This lowers the risk of stroke and also decreases the risk of heart disease.

Dark chocolate also helps balance the immune system. Flavonols reduce oxidative stress and prevent the immune system from overreacting. Oxidative stress is an imbalance caused by cells fighting against free radicals and can cause many diseases.

Dark chocolate also combats diseases. The flavonol Epicatechin makes cells stronger, protects cells, and supports the body’s process of making insulin. The supported production of insulin could help counteract diabetes.

In addition, dark chocolate improves brain function. The flavonols in dark chocolate are directly related to faster reaction times, stronger memory, and visual-spatial awareness. Though the research is ongoing, a reason for increased brain function is predicted to be that the flavonoids could cause increased blood flow to the brain.

Dark chocolate can also boost athletic performance. The flavonols in dark chocolate increase the production of nitric oxide in the blood. Nitric oxide increases circulation and reduces the amount of oxygen an athlete uses while participating in moderately intense exercise. This allows the athlete to maintain a high-intensity workout for a longer period of time.

Lastly, dark chocolate reduces stress. After eating dark chocolate, people report less stress.  In fact, the stress hormone cortisol is reduced by eating dark chocolate. It is assumed that this effect of dark chocolate helps reduce the effects of cardiovascular disease.

It is also important to note that dark chocolate contains caffeine, so those who are sensitive should be aware. Letting dark chocolate into your life (in moderation) isn’t a bad thing due to its health-boosting compounds.  Sitting on the couch, mindlessly eating a bottomless bowl of chocolate, is not healthy, but eating chocolate with intent, keeping in mind how much and why you are eating it, can be beneficial.