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Yes, I do realize that the title of this post is a little silly- I mean, who needs to read a list of reasons to love chocolate? Doesn’t everyone just naturally love chocolate? Well, today is National Chocolate Day, and singing the praises of chocolate just seems like an appropriate way to honor this delicious treat. We all know that chocolate tastes good and that it makes us think of holidays and celebrations, but there’s always a bit of guilt around enjoying it because- well, because anything that tastes so good and decadence just has to be a guilty pleasure, right? Wrong! Chocolate is one of those things that make us happy, and is also good for us! Of course, all in moderation, since chocolate can also be high in fat and sugar, but still! But when you allow yourself to savor the delicious flavor of chocolate and feel good about it, too, you don’t even really need all that much anyway. Check out some of these healthy reasons to love chocolate:

1. Antioxidants:

Chocolate is one of the best sources of antioxidants, which bump your immune system and counteract cell damage that can lead to debilitating diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

2. Reduce stress:

You already know that eating chocolate makes you feel happy and there’s a reason for that: components of chocolate work with brain receptors to help you relax. Comfort food, anyone?

3. Heart health:

The anti-inflammatory effects of chocolate keep your heart healthy.

4. Brain function:

Chocolate contains compounds called flavonols which improve blood circulation throughout the body and brain.

5. Cholesterol:

Eating chocolate can help control your cholesterol by helping to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. It also helps with blood pressure.

6. Prevent strokes:

Chocolate can help reduce the risk of stroke, as well as the risk of dying from a stroke.

7. Boost your workout:

Eating chocolate before a workout can give you more energy and allow you to work out longer.

8. Lose weight:

Sounds too good to be true, I know, but scientists believe that letting a piece of chocolate melt on your tongue 20 minutes before a meal will trigger hormones that help you feel satisfied. This way you’ll be less likely to overeat.

9. Skin:

It’s those flavonols again, working to protect your skin from UV rays and sun damage. You’ll still need sunblock, though.

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