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When it comes to dieting, dessert is likely the first thing you ditch. But, chowing down on that chocolate cake can be guilt-free. Here’s why dessert can be good for you, according to science.
It Lowers Your Blood Pressure
A few bites of chocolate each day could decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease down the line. A 2011 Harvard study found that eating a small square of dark chocolate every day lowered blood pressure in all 1,106 participants. They believe this is because chocolate rich in cocoa (as found in unsweetened or dark chocolate) packs a high concentration of flavonoids, an antioxidant with huge anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits.
It Protects You From Strokes
It’s worth repeating: dark chocolate is really good for you. In a study of Swedish men aged 45 to 79, those who ate about one square were 17 percent less likely to suffer from a stroke than those who cut it out entirely.
It Will Satisfy Your Cravings
Focus on portion control, which means avoiding that generous slice of pie or devouring four or five cookies in one sitting. Put the box back in the pantry or freezer after you remove your select portion to keep you from reaching to grab more later on.
It Can Limit Your Sugar and Fat Intake
If you make your own goodies at home, you can substitute other ingredients for butter and oil, reduce the amount of sugar added, and even toss in healthy additions like nuts. Homemade desserts can “satisfy your dessert craving in healthier ways,” Rachel Johnson, PhD, chair of the American Heart Association’s (AHA) nutrition committee, told TIME.
It Will Inspire You To Be Active
Since you know what you’re eating when you indulge, you can also make the conscious decision to work it off afterward. If you can’t live without dessert, one way to balance your sugar intake is to stay active during the day and maintain a diet low in other added sugars, suggests Johnson. Taking a stroll during lunch or hitting the gym after work can lead to a whole bundle of other health benefits, too.
As a seasoned nutritionist with a wealth of expertise in the field, I've delved into various aspects of diet and health, examining scientific studies and staying abreast of the latest developments. My knowledge extends beyond the basics, allowing me to interpret research findings with a critical eye. Now, let's dissect the intriguing information presented in the article about the health benefits of indulging in dessert.
The article makes several claims backed by scientific evidence, reinforcing the notion that certain desserts can be not only enjoyable but also beneficial for your health:
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Lowering Blood Pressure with Dark Chocolate: The article refers to a 2011 Harvard study involving 1,106 participants, which demonstrated that consuming a small square of dark chocolate daily could lead to a reduction in blood pressure. This effect is attributed to the high concentration of flavonoids in cocoa, known for their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune system benefits.
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Protection Against Strokes with Dark Chocolate: Building on the benefits of dark chocolate, the article cites a study of Swedish men aged 45 to 79. Those who consumed about one square of dark chocolate were found to be 17 percent less likely to suffer from a stroke compared to those who abstained from it entirely.
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Satisfying Cravings through Portion Control: The article emphasizes the importance of portion control to satisfy dessert cravings without overindulging. By consciously selecting and limiting portions, individuals can enjoy desserts without negatively impacting their health.
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Limiting Sugar and Fat Intake with Homemade Goodies: Homemade desserts are highlighted as a healthier alternative, allowing individuals to substitute ingredients like butter and oil, reduce added sugar, and incorporate nutritious elements such as nuts. Rachel Johnson, PhD, chair of the American Heart Association’s nutrition committee, supports this notion, emphasizing the potential to satisfy dessert cravings in a more health-conscious manner.
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Inspiring Physical Activity After Indulgence: The article suggests that being aware of your dessert choices enables you to make informed decisions about balancing sugar intake through physical activity. By staying active throughout the day, such as taking a stroll during lunch or hitting the gym after work, individuals can mitigate the impact of dessert consumption while reaping additional health benefits.
In conclusion, this article highlights the nuanced relationship between dessert consumption and health, backed by scientific studies. It underscores the importance of making informed choices, practicing moderation, and even leveraging dessert consumption as motivation for maintaining an active lifestyle.
