World Chocolate Day is alternatively known as International Chocolate Day. Chocolate as a confection dates back to 1550 and though the history of World Chocolate Day is not very clear, it is believed that 7th July was the day when chocolate got introduced to Europe. Most of us go on guilt trips whenever we consume chocolates. There is a mixed feeling of emotions each time we consume it. Our hearts pump with joy but the mind keeps us reprimanding for losing control on our taste buds. There are benefits of consuming chocolates. Find out what those are!

Benefits of consuming chocolate

Chocolates have always been referred to as an indulgent confection. However, there is historical evidence pointing towards its healing qualities. It is believed that humans have been consuming cocoa since 460 AD. It was consumed by indigenous people for medicinal benefits before it got introduced to the rest of the world. The indigenous people had been making beverages or food items from the cocoa beans. 

David L. Katz, Kim Doughty and Ather Ali have mentioned in their literature review, titled Cocoa and Chocolate in Human Health and Disease that there were over 100 uses for cocoa / cacao / chocolate between 16th and 20th centuries and that there is documented evidence of the same.  As per the evidence, chocolates were used in those times to stimulate the nervous system, improve digestion and to make weak and feeble people gain some weight.

Avoid overindulgence but relish it a bit on World Chocolate Day

The third benefit as mentioned in the study of Katz, Kim and Ather do provide the hint about weight gain properties of chocolate, however, the health benefits of particularly dark chocolate has been quoted to be high in the same study.  The researchers conclude that if a dose range for alcohol intake can be established, it should be done for chocolate as well. “Food can be medicine, and chocolate may be a noteworthy example,” say the researchers. They recommend health professionals to set parameters for consumption so that people can consume the prescribed amount without going on guilt trips.