The Sweet Side of Functional Medicine

The Sweet Side of Functional Medicine

As a doctor practicing Functional Medicine, I encourage all my patients to make food choices that positively affect their vitality and health. Did you know that dark chocolate can be incorporated as one of those positive choices?

I am sure you have heard the studies that have shown the benefits of dark chocolate, that it may reduce risk factors of heart disease, reduce cell damage, lower blood pressure, improve vascular function, lower levels of insulin, possibly reduce cancer risk, diabetes, stroke, heart attack, lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and elevating HDL (“good”) cholesterol. More research and larger studies are needed to confirm these findings, but the initial data is very encouraging. The high levels of flavanols found in dark chocolate are responsible for these anti-aging benefits.

Not all dark chocolates are created equal

To receive the full health benefits of this sweeter treat, select only dark chocolate with 70% or greater cocoa, and enjoy one or two ounces several times a week. Worried about excess fat or sugar? The fat found in cocoa, called stearic acid, does not raise cholesterol levels. The amount of sugar in chocolate that is 70% cocoa is only about one-third the amount found in its milk chocolate equivalent. Valentine’s Day will be even sweeter knowing dark chocolate is satisfying more than just your sweet tooth.