Chocolate is classified as one of the good sources of flavonoids for the body. One of the main benefits of the flavonoids in cocoa is that it can improve the function of the part of the brain, which affects memory problems due to age.

If you want to eat chocolate, choose pure chocolate made from solid cocoa content without cocoa butter and fat. The higher the pure cocoa content in it, the higher the flavonoids in it.

There are various kinds of chocolate that you can find in the market, of course, with different flavonoid content in each product brand. However, the flavonoid content in cocoa can be reduced or damaged during the manufacturing process. Dark chocolate is considered to have a higher flavonoid content than other types of chocolate.

Below are some of the benefits of cocoa that you should know, so that the moment of enjoying cocoa can be more enjoyable and relaxing:

For those of you who have high blood pressure, try to consume cocoa. Research shows that consuming processed cocoa or dark chocolate products for about 4 months can reduce hypertension. Not only that, cocoa consumption can also prevent blockage of blood flow and increase blood circulation to the heart and brain, as well as fight cell damage.

Other studies have also shown that consuming cocoa can increase good cholesterol (LDL) and lower bad cholesterol (HDL).

Cocoa contained in dark chocolate has been shown to have benefits in reducing the risk of heart disease. Research shows people who eat dark chocolate every week, have a lower risk of heart disease, than those who don't eat dark chocolate.

In addition to some of the benefits above, cocoa is also expected to provide other benefits. For example, reducing the risk of cancer, improving liver function, reducing fatigue and reducing insulin resistance. However, further research is still needed in this regard.

During this time, chocolate consumption is often associated with being overweight or obese. Whereas research shows, consumption of flavonoid-rich cocoa does not make the study participants become obese or have increased triglycerides. Triglycerides are a type of blood fat that has been linked to coronary artery disease when elevated above normal.

Even though it has various benefits, it is better if you don't consume excessive cocoa products and be more careful in choosing the right type of product. One type that you can choose is dark chocolate that does not contain a lot of added milk, sugar or sweeteners. If you have certain health conditions, you should consult a doctor before consuming it.