Who doesn’t love chocolate? From a child to an old person, everyone fancies the taste of chocolates.

And, what if I tell you that chocolate can increase your lifespan? Yes, you heard it right! The consumption of chocolates can add years to your life. In this article, we will be discussing the secrets to a long life and why chocolate lovers live longer.

: Secrets to a long life

: 1. Balanced diet

A balanced diet is important for a long and healthy life. Consuming a diet which is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, proteins, and carbohydrates can help prevent various diseases and keep you healthy.

A diet high in chocolates can act as a supplement to your diet as it contains essential minerals like copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc.

: 2. Exercise

Exercise not only helps your body stay fit but also keeps your mind active. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of various health problems like heart disease, stroke and cancer.

It can also improve your cognitive functioning, mental health, and overall well-being. A good exercise routine coupled with a moderate intake of chocolates can do wonders to your health.

: 3. Social interaction

Being social is a vital part of leading a healthy life. Happiness and psychological well-being are strongly linked to social interaction. Having a social support system can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

A cup of hot chocolate shared with friends or a chocolate cake baked for your loved ones can be an excellent way to bond with people and enhance your social life.

: 4. Stress management

Stress is a part of life, but it can have a negative impact on your health if it persists over long periods. Chronic stress can lead to various health problems like heart disease, hypertension and other chronic illnesses.

A moderate amount of chocolate consumption can help reduce stress hormones like cortisol and induce feelings of relaxation and happiness.

: 5. Good sleep

Quality sleep is essential for a healthy and long life. Sleep helps in the repair and regeneration of the body and mind, and lack of sleep can lead to various health problems like obesity, diabetes, and mental health disorders.

A small amount of chocolate consumed before bedtime can help induce sleep and regulate sleep hormones like melatonin.

: Why chocolate lovers live longer

: 1. Anti-oxidant properties

Chocolate contains high amounts of flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants help the body fight against free radicals that damage the cells and cause inflammation, aging, and chronic diseases.

Flavonoids found in chocolates can help reduce oxidative stress and lower the risk of cancer, heart disease, and dementia.

: 2. Cardiovascular health

Studies have shown that consuming moderate amounts of dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

Dark chocolate contains high amounts of flavanols, which are known to possess cardioprotective properties. A study published in European Heart Journal found that regular consumption of chocolate reduced the risk of heart disease by 37 percent.

: 3. Brain health

Chocolate contains a compound called epicatechin, which can stimulate the production of nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps in improving blood flow to the brain and enhances brain function.

A study conducted on elderly individuals found that consuming chocolate rich in flavonoids improved their cognitive function and reduced the risk of mild cognitive impairment.

: 4. Mood enhancer

Chocolate contains various compounds like theobromine, serotonin, and phenylethylamine, which can act as mood enhancers. These compounds can boost the release of endorphins in the body and induce feelings of pleasure, happiness, and relaxation.

A study conducted on postpartum women found that the consumption of dark chocolate improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.

: 5. Longevity

A study conducted on a group of elderly men found that those who consumed high amounts of chocolate had a lower risk of death from all causes as compared to those who consumed less chocolate.

Chocolate consumption also improved their insulin resistance, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Another study conducted on centenarians found that chocolate was one of the food items commonly consumed by them.

: Conclusion

Chocolate, when consumed in moderation along with a balanced diet, exercise, stress management, social interaction, and good sleep, can certainly improve health and longevity.

Chocolates possess numerous health benefits like anti-oxidant properties, cardioprotective properties, brain health benefits, mood-enhancing properties, and longevity-enhancing properties. So, the next time you crave a piece of chocolate, go ahead and indulge in it without any guilt.