Chocolate is indulgent, delicious and is loved by most people. And the good news is, black chocolate also has health benefits.

It is rich in antioxidants and contains a high concentration of cocoa solids, which are believed to provide several health benefits. But did you know that black chocolate also has positive effects on your immune health? In this article, we will discuss the benefits of black chocolate on your immune system.

What is black chocolate?

Black chocolate is usually made of cocoa solids or cocoa mass, cocoa butter, sugar, and sometimes other flavorings. The amount of cocoa solids in chocolate varies from brand to brand, but generally, dark chocolate contains 70% or more of cocoa solids.

Benefits of Black Chocolate on Immune Health

1. Rich in antioxidants

Cocoa beans contain flavonoids like flavanols and procyanidins, which have antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help in reducing oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals in the body.

A study published in the Journal of Immunology found that the flavanols found in cocoa powder can help improve immune system function.

2. May help reduce inflammation

Chronic inflammation can lead to a host of health problems such as autoimmune diseases, heart disease, and cancer. Studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties of flavanols found in black chocolate can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Researchers from the University of São Paulo found that flavanols found in cocoa powder can improve the immune system’s response to inflammation, hence improving immune health.

3. Improves gut microbiota

The gut microbiota is made up of trillions of microorganisms that live in the intestines. The gut microbiota plays a significant role in immunity, digestion, and other bodily functions.

Experts believe that a balanced gut microbiota is essential for maintaining good health. The flavanols found in black chocolate have prebiotic effects, which can help improve gut microbiota by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

A study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research found that the consumption of black chocolate can improve the composition of gut microorganisms and enhance the immune system’s function.

4. Boosts immunity

The immune system is the body’s defense mechanism against pathogens and diseases. The flavanols found in black chocolate have been found to stimulate the immune system’s response to pathogens, thus improving overall immune health.

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that people who consumed black chocolate daily for two weeks saw an increase in the number of immune cells in their blood, indicating a boost in immunity.

5. May help prevent infections

The antibacterial properties of flavanols found in black chocolate can help prevent infections caused by bacteria. Studies have shown that flavanols can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as E.

coli and Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause food poisoning and other infections.

6. Reduces stress

Stress can weaken the immune system by increasing the production of cortisol, a hormone that suppresses the immune system.

The flavanols found in black chocolate can reduce stress by releasing endorphins, which are known to have a calming effect on the nervous system. A study published in the Journal of Proteome Research found that consuming black chocolate can reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body.

7. Protects against UV damage

The antioxidants found in black chocolate can help protect the skin against damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation can damage the skin’s DNA, leading to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that consuming black chocolate can help protect the skin against UV damage.

8. May help prevent chronic diseases

Chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer are the leading causes of death worldwide.

The flavanols found in black chocolate can help prevent chronic diseases by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of blood clots. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming black chocolate can reduce the risk of heart disease by improving cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

9. Improves brain function

The flavanols found in black chocolate can improve brain function by increasing blood flow to the brain. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming black chocolate can improve cognitive function and memory in elderly people.

10. Reduces the risk of diabetes

The flavanols found in black chocolate can help reduce the risk of diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming black chocolate can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

Black chocolate is not just delicious but also has several health benefits, including improving immune health.

The flavanols found in black chocolate have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, which can help improve immune system function, reduce inflammation, improve gut microbiota, boost immunity, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.