dark chocolate Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Dark Chocolate & Tea Lower Blood Pressure as Effectively as Medication

The AHA! Team — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 05:34:36 +0000

Cassie B. via Natural News – Decades of research involving over 5,200 adults shows flavanol-rich foods like dark chocolate and tea can lower blood pressure as effectively as medications, without harmful side effects. A major meta-analysis found flavanol consumption reduces systolic blood pressure by 3 mmHg on average — and up to 6 mmHg for those with hypertension — matching prescription drug results. Flavanols boost nitric oxide, improving blood vessel function naturally, with only 0.4% of participants reporting mild, temporary discomfort, which is far safer than pharmaceutical side effects. Experts recommend 400 to 600 mg of flavanols daily, achievable through dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa), black tea, and apples, offering a cost-effective, drug-free health boost. Beyond blood pressure, flavanols enhance cognitive function, insulin sensitivity, and heart health, proving whole foods outperform synthetic drugs for long-term wellness. The medical establishment and Big Pharma have long pushed expensive, side-effect-laden drugs as the only solution for high blood pressure, a condition affecting nearly half of American adults. But groundbreaking research spanning 80 years and involving over 5,200 adults reveals a far safer, more natural alternative: flavanol-rich foods like dark chocolate, tea, apples, and grapes. These everyday delights don’t just slightly improve cardiovascular health; they rival the blood pressure-lowering effects of prescription medications, all without the risks of Big Pharma’s chemical concoctions. The comprehensive meta-analysis, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, examined 145 clinical trials and found that participants consuming flavanol-rich foods saw systolic blood pressure drop by an average of 3 mmHg and diastolic by 2 mmHg. For those with elevated blood pressure, the reductions were even more dramatic—up to 6 mmHg systolic and 3 mmHg diastolic, matching the impact of common hypertension drugs. The science behind nature’s medicine Flavanols, plant-based compounds abundant in cocoa and tea, work by boosting nitric oxide production, which relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. Unlike synthetic pharmaceuticals, which often come with debilitating side effects, these natural compounds deliver benefits with near-zero risk. Only 0.4% of study participants reported mild, transient discomfort like headaches or digestive issues, which is a pretty big contrast to the dizziness, fatigue, and kidney strain linked to blood pressure medications. Findings are encouraging “The findings are encouraging for those looking for accessible ways to manage their blood pressure and support their heart health through enjoyable dietary changes,” said lead researcher Christian Heiss, a cardiovascular medicine professor at the University of Surrey. Translation: You don’t need a prescription to harness these benefits—just a trip to the grocery store. The implications are explosive. If millions of Americans swapped even a fraction of their blood pressure medications for daily dark chocolate or tea, the pharmaceutical industry would lose billions. No wonder corporate-controlled media and medical gatekeepers downplay these findings. How to harness flavanols without Big Food’s tricks Not all chocolate is created equal. Milk chocolate and alkalized cocoa (common in mass-produced brands) are stripped of flavanols. To reap the benefits, opt for minimally processed dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content or raw cocoa powder. Similarly, black tea outperforms green tea in flavanol content, delivering up to 269 mg per cup. Kristi Crowe-White, a nutrition professor at the University of Alabama, co-authored the first U.S. dietary guideline for flavanols, recommending 400-600 mg daily. this can easily achieved with: 2 cups of black tea (538 mg) 30 grams of dark chocolate (30 mg) 1 apple (12 mg) Compare that to the cost and side effects of a monthly prescription. Nature beats pharmaceuticals… again This isn’t just about blood pressure. Flavanols also enhance cognitive function, reduce insulin resistance, and improve endothelial health—benefits no single drug can claim. While the medical-industrial complex profits from keeping patients dependent, the truth is clear: real food, not lab-made chemicals, holds the key to lasting wellness. As always, the elites would rather you ignore this. But for those willing to think independently, the solution is as simple as a square of dark chocolate and a cup of tea. Your heart will thank you. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com StudyFinds.org SciTechDaily.com To read the original article, click here

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Dark Chocolate for Stress Starts in the Brain, New Study Shows

AHA Publisher — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 07:00:46 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – We often talk about the many health benefits of dark chocolate, perhaps because it’s so darn tasty. Its impressive antioxidant profile and impact on cardiovascular health are added, guilt-reducing bonuses. Well, good news: A new preclinical study shows that dark chocolate may also help your brain adapt to chronic stress. Study Findings: Dark Chocolate Could Boost Stress Response A June 2022 study published in Nutritional Neuroscience analyzed the impact of dark chocolate dietary patterns on the hippocampal CA1 brain region in rats when exposed to chronic stress. Thirty-five rats were placed into five groups: a control group, a stress group and three groups made up of different dark chocolate dietary patterns. Rats in the “compulsory diet” received only dark chocolate for stress, rats on the “optional diet” had an option of unlimited dark chocolate or chow, and those on the “restricted diet” received chow and only four grams of dark chocolate daily. Based on their findings, researchers concluded that the compulsory and restricted dark chocolate dietary patterns reversed the harmful effects of chronic isolation stress on the brain nerve cells that impact learning and memory processing. Results also show that food intake and body weight decreased significantly in all dark chocolate groups. What It Means This is the first study of its kind, testing the impact of dark chocolate for stress by way of affecting nerve cells in the brain. The next step is to research whether or not dark chocolate impacts humans similarly. There is already evidence that dark chocolate benefits brain health. A 2020 study found that dark chocolate consumption improved verbal episodic memory compared to white chocolate. Researchers believe that this may be due to increased cerebral blood flow from cocoa flavonoids. A parallel-group, randomized trial published in 2019 indicates that consuming dark chocolate enhances cognitive function performance compared to white chocolate. There’s also research on how dark chocolate impacts perceived stress. A 2014 study showedthat consuming 40 grams of dark or milk chocolate daily during a two-week period is an effective way to reduce perceived stress in females. This latest study on dark chocolate suggests that the antioxidant-rich food may have several mechanisms for boosting brain health and reducing stress in humans, which is exactly why it’s considered a happy food. Tips to Reduce Stress Controlling stress is a major issue among adults. Although it’s a natural feeling that can improve motivation, dealing with it constantly can have significant effects on your overall health. To boot, stress can impact your dietary and lifestyle choices, leading to a cycle of inflammation, low mood and trouble sleeping. There are many natural stress relievers that can help ease anxiety, reduce inflammation, improve mental clarity and promote restful sleep. Here are some of the top tips for reducing stress: Daily exercise or physical activity (including walking outdoors, jogging, yoga, swimming, biking and lifting weights) A nutrient-rich diet that includes high-quality protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables and herbs (avoid or cut back on processed, packaged and sugary foods, alcohol, and caffeine) Spending more time outdoors, taking casual walks, hiking or relaxing outside Keep a journal to track and work through emotions, helping you to identify triggers and common causes of stress Breathing exercises, stretching and massage Using adaptogenic herbs, such as ashwagandha, ginseng, cocoa and maca Engaging in daily spiritual prayer or meditation Conclusion A June 2022 study published in Nutritional Neuroscience evaluated the impact of dark chocolate dietary patterns on the hippocampal CA1 brain region, which plays a role in memory and learning. Researchers found that rats on dark chocolate dietary patterns showed a reversal of the harmful effects of chronic isolation stress on the brain nerve cells. Study results also show that food intake and body weight decreased significantly among rats fed dark chocolate. Although human evidence is needed, this study suggests that dark chocolate plays a role in reducing the impact of chronic stress on the brain. To read the original article click here.

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Chocolate Mug Cake: Valentine’s Day Last-Minute Special

AHA Publisher — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:00:55 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – We’ve all seen the trend of making desserts in a mug, right? The idea is to whip up an easy, decadent single-serving of cake in just minutes, typically with the help of a microwave. My chocolate cake in a mug will bring the same joy and satisfaction as those other mug cakes, but with some upgraded ingredients. “In A Mug” Trend! Cakes in a mug have spiked in popularity the last several years, thanks to food bloggers on the internet. Who doesn’t love having a quick option for post-dinner dessert? (Such as for Valentine’s Day!) The problem with many of these chocolate mug cakes is the list of ingredients in them. Refined flour, addictive sugar and conventional dairy are at the top of the list, and you know how I feel about those ingredients. Some mug cakes even call for highly refined vegetable oils, which typically are rancid since they have been exposed to light and air while being processed. When I make my chocolate cake in a mug, I actually bake mine in the oven. Using an oven allows the cake to bake evenly without heating the ingredients up too quickly. Although it would be quicker to use a use a microwave for this chocolate mug cake, the quality of your ingredients will stay intact using an oven. For the Gluten-Free Baker This recipe is perfect for the gluten-free baker who always has ingredients on hand. Since this chocolate cake in a mug is for one, you’ll only need a little bit of each ingredient to make this mug cake come together. No need to run out to the grocery store to get a whole bag of cassava flour (although with this moist chocolate cake recipe, it would totally be worth it)! How to Make Chocolate Mug Cake You’ll start with part of a dark chocolate bar, with a minimum of 70 percent cacao. Cacao is rich in magnesium and antioxidants, so the darker the chocolate bar, the better. Melt the chocolate bar pieces with a tablespoon of grass-fed butter. If you want to keep it dairy free, substitute with coconut oil. Add the melted chocolate mixture to a mug, or in a mixing bowl if you plan on doubling or tripling this mug cake recipe. Next comes coconut flour, which is a healthy gluten-free flourhigh in fiber. Add in cassava flour, which is another great gluten-free flour. It’s highly versatile, a great replacement for wheat flour and free of grains. I added a little bit of baking powder and sea salt, as well as a pastured egg. Since I used an oven to make the chocolate mug cake, I preheated an oven-safe mug as the oven was preheating. Carefully remove the mug from oven and pour in the chocolate cake mixture. Place mug or mugs onto a baking sheet, and put back into the oven. Bake the mug cake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Your mug will be hot, so be careful as you dive into this delightful chocolate cake in a mug. Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe The idea of a chocolate mug cake is to whip up an easy, decadent single-serving of cake in just minutes, typically with the help of a microwave. Here’s a healthier version but done in an oven. Much better all around! INGREDIENTS ¼ cup dark chocolate (minimum 70% cacao), chopped 2 tablespoons grass-fed butter or coconut oil 2 tablespoons coconut flour ¼ cup cassava flour ⅛ teaspoon baking powder pinch of sea salt 2 eggs INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350 F. Place oven-safe mugs in the oven while preheating. In a small sauce pan, melt dark chocolate and butter. Pour chocolate mixture in a small mixing bowl. Add in coconut flour, cassava flour, baking powder, sea salt and egg and whisk until well combined. Carefully remove mug from the oven and pour mixture into the mug. Place back in the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Top with coconut whipped cream, if desired. To read the original article click here.

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Paleo Brownies Recipe with 7 Perfect Ingredients

AHA Publisher — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 08:00:13 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Many people probably put brownies pretty high up there on their list of favorite desserts. Warm, gooey and chocolatey, there’s a lot to love about brownies. But then again, there’s a lot that can be problematic about a traditional brownie. Typically, brownies are made with gluten-rich flour. They’re also usually loaded with inflammatory processed white sugar. Nowadays, there are a lot of ways to up the health factor of brownies and still keep them tasty. For example, there’s my sweet potato brownies recipe, which has a similar taste and nutrient boost as a pumpkin brownie recipe. You can also try a zucchini brownies Paleo-friendly recipe! The healthy options keep on coming, but what if you really just want a healthier version of brownies minus the fruits and vegetables? Well then you’re in luck because I’m about to reveal my rich and delicious Paleo brownies recipe to you. Whether you’re currently following a Paleo diet or close to it, looking for a flourless brownies recipe, or you’re just wanting a healthier take on this classic recipe, these Paleo brownies are going to be perfect for you! Do you have a milk allergy or are you choosing to avoid dairy for health reasons? This recipe also has you covered since these are completely dairy-free brownies. Paleo Brownie vs. Regular Brownie While these aren’t sugar-free brownies, they are brownies free of processed sugar. Instead of the usual stark white sweetener, this recipe contains maple sugar. This healthier sweetener comes from maple syrup, which is the sap of the maple tree. Unlike processed sugar that offers nothing nutritionally, maple syrup and maple sugar contain important antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc. There are many versions of gluten-free brownies to choose from like coconut flour brownies and almond flour brownies. This Paleo brownie recipe is actually not just gluten-free, but also entirely flour-free. My recipe uses arrowroot starch, which is completely grain-free and ideal for gluten-free baking. Arrowroot starch comes from arrowroot, which has been shownto boost immune health in recent scientific studies. Chocolate frosting for brownies can be a way to make brownies even more chocolatey and decadent, but most frostings are just a sugar and fat trap. If you’re looking to add frosting to these paleo brownies, you can try my Spiced Coconut Chocolate Frosting, which is actually a Paleo-friendly frosting recipe. Or, if you’re okay with butter then you may also want use my healthier take on a more traditional chocolate frosting. Warning: these frostings may use healthier ingredients, but they will not disappoint your taste buds one bit! How to Make Paleo Brownies Any dessert is only as tasty and healthy as the ingredients that go into it. This is certainly true for brownies. This Paleo brownie recipe uses high quality ingredients with a focus on avoiding common food allergens like wheat, gluten and dairy. As I said earlier, I’m also skipping the common health hazardous ingredient of processed white sugar. The healthy substitutions in this recipe increase nutrient levels and possible health benefits. Do you know what else? This Paleo brownie recipe is no harder or more time consuming than a traditional brownie recipe. Plus, you loose nothing in the flavor department. This recipe includes dark chocolate chips, sea salt, vanilla extract, coconut oil … is your mouth watering yet? Before you start making your delicious Paleo brownies, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 350 F. Next, in a small pot, after melting the coconut oil, add chocolate chips over medium heat. Now you can start combining all of your other ingredients into a large mixing bowl, starting with sea salt and maple sugar … then the arrowroot starch … then the vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, mix all the other ingredients together until the batter is thick. Bake for 30 minutes. I know it’s hard to wait, but allow these delicious brownies to cool for 15 minutes before digging your teeth into one. Paleo Brownies Recipe Want a simple, healthier version of brownies that keeps out all processed ingredients? Welcome to my rich and delicious Paleo brownies recipe. INGREDIENTS ½ cup coconut oil 2 eggs ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips ½ cup maple sugar ½ teaspoon sea salt 3 tablespoons arrowroot starch ½ cup cocoa or cacao powder 2 teaspoons vanilla INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350 F. Melt the coconut oil and chocolate chips in a small pot over medium heat. Using a hand mixer, mix all the other ingredients together until the batter is thick. Pour contents into a 8.5″ x 4.5″ x 2.75″ loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes. Allow to cool for 15 minutes. To read the original article click here.

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From Coffee to Dark Chocolate, the Many Health Benefits of Polyphenols: ‘Dramatic Anti-Cancer Effects’

AHA Publisher — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 07:00:55 +0000

Lori Johnson via CBN News – This year marked the first-ever national Polyphenol Day, a day set aside to recognize one of nature’s healthiest nutrients. Polyphenols, found in certain plant foods are considered very good for the body because of the protection they provide from damage that often comes with aging. In addition to fighting the many negative effects of aging, research shows these compounds can also reduce the risk of heart disease and other leading causes of death. Dr. Steven Gundry, a leading cardiovascular surgeon who specializes in nutrition and the treatment of elderly patients, told CBN News he recommends a diet rich in polyphenols. “Some of these compounds are now recognized as having dramatic anti-cancer effects,” he said. “And I actually use the power of polyphenols in most of my clinic for the active treatment of people with cancer, metastatic cancer, who are inoperable.” In fact, Dr. Gundry pushed the designation of national Polyphenol Day to build interest and knowledge. He said people can find these compounds in their local grocery store if they know what to look for. He says many foods containing polyphenols can be found in the produce department or the frozen food section. “Right now blackberries and raspberries have the highest polyphenol content of any of the berries, that’s followed by strawberries,” he explained. “Traditionally we’ve always thought of blueberries as a great source of polyphenols, but blueberries have actually been bred for sugar content so now blueberries are a little bit down the scale of where you’d find polyphenols. The exception is if you find wild blueberries or tiny blueberries.” Dr. Gundry says when shopping, make sure to go to the aisle where olive oil can be found. It contains high amounts of polyphenols. However, since there are so many different brands, choosing the right olive oil can be confusing. “The more bitter olive oil, the kind that makes you cough, or kind of burns, that’s a sign of the polyphenol content,” he said. Believe it or not, Dr. Gundry says polyphenol-rich foods can be found in the candy aisle in the form of dark chocolate. Like olive oil, Dr. Gundry says the more bitter the better. That means choosing one with the highest percentage of cacao. “Extra dark chocolate has tons of polyphenols. But beware: milk chocolate, which is preferred by Americans, all the polyphenols have been taken out to make it taste good,” he said. Black coffee also does more than give you a morning pick-up, explains Dr. Gundy. “A fascinating study shows people who drink five or more cups of coffee per day have a very low incidence of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s,” he said. “And it turns out it’s the polyphenols that have that benefit.” Some, but not all, teas also score high. “And it really doesn’t matter whether it’s green tea or black tea, but herbal teas aren’t loaded with polyphenols,” he said. Dr. Gundry recommends using spices liberally because most of them, even ordinary black pepper, can help. “Sprinkle them on your salad, on your fish, your chicken,” he said. “You can get polyphenols every day without worrying about it.” By increasing the consumption of polyphenols in foods and beverages, spices, and supplements, research shows we can lower our risk of disease. To read the original article click here.

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Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

AHA Publisher — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 07:00:42 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – It may seem like vegans would have a difficult time enjoying baking classics without eating eggs, but thankfully, there are more and more sweets that are vegan-friendly, including my vegan chocolate chip cookies. There’s no cookie more quintessentially American than the chocolate chip cookie, and really, there’s probably none that’s as delicious. That sweet dough studded with little chocolate morsels — it’s hard to resist. You can dress them up with peanut butter, add in oatmeal or try another bunch of variations, but it’s the classic chocolate chip version that keeps us coming back for more. There’s only one problem: Most chocolate chip recipes require butter and milk, which is a no-no for vegans. In addition, if you’re eating gluten-free, the white flour used in these recipes presents its own challenge. That is until now because this vegan chocolate chip cookies recipe is just what the doctor ordered. Key Ingredients What makes this vegan cookie recipe so great? For starters, it doesn’t require any crazy ingredients and just may result in the best vegan chocolate chip cookies you’ll ever make. The dough is made primarily from your favorite nut butter and gluten-free flour. I used chocolate hazelnut butter, which can be purchased at health food stores, to give these cookies an extra chocolatey flavor, but almond butter works really well, too. You can make your own version at home, too. I like this Paleo homemade chocolate butter recipe. For the flour, I go with Paleo baking flour. You can find this at your local grocery store or online easily. It combines several different nut flours and root starches for a gluten-free flour that’s perfect to use in your favorite baking recipes. These cookies are sweetened naturally with maple syrup, for no sugar crashes later, and given even more fantastic flavor with the addition of vanilla extract. I also use a flax egg in this eggless chocolate chip cookies recipe so it’s suitable for vegans, but feel free to use an egg if you’re not vegan. Finally, the combination of heart-healthy dark chocolate along with superfood cacao nibs means you’ll enjoy health benefits from these flourless chocolate chip cookies, including a better mood! How to Make Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies If you’re ready to whip up these delicious vegan cookies, let’s get started! Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a food processor, add in your choice of nut butter, Paleo flour, maple syrup, flax egg, vanilla extract, sea salt, baking powder, dark chocolate chips and cacao nibs. This is going to be your (very delicious!) vegan chocolate chip cookie dough. Look at that chocolate. You can already tell these are going to be good. Process all the ingredients together until they’ve reached a dough-like consistency. Then chill the dough in the fridge for 20 minutes. The fun part about these vegan chocolate chip cookies is that, unlike normal ones, you can use cookie cutters to make them into fun shapes! Scoop a tablespoon of dough at a time and shape into cookies — you can do regular circles, but I say it’s time to get creative here. This is a great step to get the children to help with, too. When you’re done shaping the cookies, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top the vegan gluten-free chocolate chip cookies with shredded coconut and cacao nibs, and then bake them for 12 minutes. Let them cool, and enjoy! Similar Recipes Looking for more vegan cookies recipes? Try the following: Soft & Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe No-Bake Coconut Cookies Recipe Edible Cookie Dough Recipe — Paleo, Vegan and Gluten-Free! Christmas Spritz Cookies (With Homemade Food Coloring!) Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe DESCRIPTION Most chocolate chip recipes require butter and milk, a no-no for vegans. Thankfully this vegan chocolate chip cookies recipe remedies that! INGREDIENTS 1 cup nut butter of choice (I recommend chocolate hazelnut butter) ½ cup Bob’s Red Mill Paleo Baking Flour ⅓ cup maple syrup 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon flax + 3 tablespoons water) 1 tablespoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon baking powder ½ cup cacao nibs ½ cup dark chocolate chips, minimum 70% cacao Shredded coconut and extra cacao nibs to top INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350 F. In a food processor, add in chocolate hazelnut butter, Paleo flour blend, maple syrup, flax egg, vanilla extract, sea salt and baking powder. Blend until well-combined. Add in the cacao nibs and chocolate chips, and pulse 6-8 times or until they are well-dispersed. Chill dough for 20 minutes. Scoop a tablespoon of the dough, shape into cookies and place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top with shredded coconut and cacao nibs. Bake for 12 minutes. NOTES This recipe uses chocolate hazelnut butter, but you can use any nut butter of your choosing, such as almond butter. If you aren’t vegan, you can use an egg in place of the flax egg. The shredded coconut and extra nibs are optional. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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Lower Your Stress, Depression, and Even Inflammation by Eating THIS Delicious Treat

AHA Publisher — Thu, 06 May 2021 07:00:45 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Dark chocolate is one of those foods that tends to go through a revolving door in the media. In one news cycle, we’re told dark chocolate isn’t a health food and is so high in calories that it should be avoided. In the next news cycle, we hear that dark chocolate actually comes with many notable health benefits. So, which is it? The truth is, dark chocolate is generally considered to be beneficial for your physical and even mental well-being — provided you consume it in moderation. And while you don’t have to eat dark chocolate to live a healthy lifestyle, there are a few tips that will help you figure out how to choose the right dark chocolate brand if you want to add this sweet treat to your weekly diet. Mounting Evidence Suggests Dark Chocolate Offers Multiple Health Benefits Dark chocolate contains a high number of many healthy compounds, including antioxidants called flavonoids, as well as minerals like magnesium, zinc, and even iron. Many researchers suspect that these healthy nutrients are what give dark chocolate its impressive list of health benefits. Here are just a few of the most recent findings: A 2019 study involving more than 13,000 participants found that people who eat dark chocolate are less likely to be depressed. The researchers, who published their data in the peer-reviewed journal Depression and Anxiety,controlled for confounding factors like weight, marital status, ethnicity, education, household income, physical activity, smoking, and chronic health problems and still found this surprising correlation between dark chocolate and mood. Research out of Loma Linda University in California and presented at the Experimental Biology 2018 annual meeting showed that dark chocolate also has beneficial effects on a person’s memory, inflammation levels, and immune system (in addition to mood). A 2017 review published in Frontiers in Immunology found that consuming dark chocolate may have beneficial effects on blood pressure, at least in older individuals and people at higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Surprisingly, some research has found that consuming dark chocolate may improve a person’s fasting blood sugar levels and “healthy” HDL cholesterol. Overwhelmed by Choice? Here Are Some Tips on How to Pick the Best Dark Chocolate If you want to enjoy some dark chocolate in your weekly diet, here are a few things to look for: Cocoa percentage: Make sure it contains at least 70% cocoa or more Sustainability and quality: If your budget and availability allow, opt for fair-trade and organic dark chocolate since this may support sustainable and ethical food practices and reduce your exposure to pesticides Non-alkalized chocolate: “Dutching” or alkalization is a process used by some manufacturers to reduce dark chocolate’s bitter flavor, but research suggests this can reduce the number of healthy antioxidants left over As for how much dark chocolate you need to eat to gain its noted health benefits, there’s no specific amount. Many studies investigating dark chocolate consumption use between 20 and 30 grams (around 1 ounce) per day. In addition, here’s a “pro tip:” Let the small piece of chocolate melt in your mouth. Don’t chew it for a longer lasting, more satisfying result. Remember, going over that (small) amount by too much may start to negate the health benefits simply because you end up consuming too much of a good thing. So, pay attention to portion sizes, but feel free to enjoy! Sources for this article include: Sciencedaily.com Sciencedaily.com Medicalnewstoday.com Healthline.com NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Wiley.com FASEbj.org To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Healthy Homemade Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe

AHA Publisher — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 07:00:19 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Not a cookie or muffin, not quite a bread or a cake — yes, the scone is in a category of its own, and my easy chocolate chip scones recipe is perhaps the best scone recipe I make. What are scones? A staple in Britain for years, scones are most similar to biscuits. They’re wonderful served alongside tea, as after-dinner dessert or when you want to knock the socks off guests without slaving away in the kitchen. We love scones in my house, and these healthy chocolate chip scones are always a favorite. As far as working with dough goes, this chocolate chip scones recipe is pretty straightforward and easy to make. Even if you’re a baking novice, you shouldn’t have trouble with these scones. I love the hint of sweetness from the chocolate chips, but you could also add in your favorite dried fruits along with them. For example, dried cherries would complement the dark chocolate well! Key Ingredients What is the secret to making good scones? Healthy, fresh ingredients, of course! Some scones recipes load up on sugar or artificial sweeteners, but my chocolate chip scone recipe uses coconut sugar as a healthier alternative. Here are the other key players in this recipe: Dark chocolate chips: Chocolate gets a bad rap, but if you opt for dark chocolate, in moderation of course, it can be a very healthy addition to the diet. That’s why we opt for dark chocolate chips, which is loaded with cancer-fighting and immune-boosting antioxidants that support skin, eye, heart and brain health. Cinnamon: High in manganese, calcium, iron and vitamin K, cinnamon can help relieve inflammation, stabilize blood sugar and even combat candida. Kefir: A probiotics powerhouse, kefir provides an array of vitamins and supports gut health. That’s not all. Kefir benefits immune, bone and skin health too. Ready to put on your apron and make the best chocolate chip scones with wholesome ingredients? Let’s get started with this easy scone recipe! How to Make Chocolate Chip Scones How do you make chocolate chip scones from scratch? Begin by preheating the oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. You’ll be thankful for this step later, as the paper will prevent the scones from sticking to your pan. Mix up your gluten-free flour (yep, those avoiding gluten can enjoy this recipe, too!), coconut sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and sea salt. Grate the cold butter into the flour mixture until the whole mix is coarse and your butter is the size of peas. Separately, mix probiotic-loaded kefir with protein-rich eggs and vanilla. Take this wet mix of ingredients, and slowly pour it over your flour mixture, making sure all the ingredients are just moistened. Now we’re getting to the good stuff: Add in your dark chocolate chips. I suggest using one cup, but a few extra wouldn’t hurt either! Be careful not to overwork the dough here, or you’ll wind up with dry scones. Instead, just gently fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly dispersed throughout the dough. Next, turn your dough out onto the countertop, and press it into a large disc shape. If you’re crafty, you can try a different shape. For the rest of us, the disc shape will work just fine. Transfer the dough-disc to a baking sheet, and using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the disc into equal-sized wedges. It’s action time! Slide your baking sheet into the oven, and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until your scones are cooked through and golden on top. Let them cool and serve. You’re going to love digging in to these! Similar Recipes Here a few other recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth: Gluten-Free Lemon Ginger Scone Recipe Gluten-Free Lemon Bars with Cranberries Recipe Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies Recipe Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe DESCRIPTION We love scones in my house, and this healthy chocolate chip scones recipe is always a favorite. This one is straightforward and easy to make. INGREDIENTS 2 cups gluten-free flour ½ cup coconut sugar 2½ teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon sea salt 8 tablespoons cold butter ½ cup kefir 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup dark chocolate chips INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Grate the butter and toss into flour mixture until mixture is coarse and the butter is the size of peas. In a separate bowl, mix kefir, egg and vanilla. Pour slowly over flour mixture and toss the mixture together until everything is just moistened. Fold in chocolate chips, being careful not to overwork the dough. Press into a disc shape and cut into equal wedges. Place on baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until cooked through and golden. NOTES You can add dried fruit to extra flavor, such as dried cherries. Make sure you use grass-fed butter. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies Recipe

AHA Publisher — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 08:00:25 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Dark chocolate lovers, I have a special treat for you. These delicious dark chocolate almond butter cookies are not only healthier than your average chocolate chip cookie, but they are the ultimate crowd-pleaser and Paleo-friendly. Key Ingredients Using only almond butter and almond flour for a base, this all-natural dark chocolate chip cookie is nutty and chewy without the guilt of refined flour and sugar. The reason I encourage my family, friends and patients to avoid wheat is partly because of its carbohydrate structure that can raise blood sugar levels more quickly than a candy bar. Wheat also increases insulin levels, which contribute to fat storage in the body — not to mention gluten in wheat that triggers inflammation and damages gut lining. I love baking with almond butter and almond flour, not only for the heart health benefits the almond brings, but for the nutty flavor and chewy texture they add to this dark chocolate almond butter cookie recipe. Dark chocolate chips are a no-brainer for these double chocolate chip cookies, as they are not only great for boosting focus and memory, but they also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Stick with bars or chocolate chips that contain 70 percent or higher in cocoa or cacao. Speaking of cacao, I added cacao nibs to these dark chocolate almond butter cookies for an extra crunch and double chocolate flavor. Cacao nibs are a great source of sulfur and magnesium, and much like their counterpart dark chocolate, they also contain high amount of flavonols with antioxidant properties. For the remaining ingredients, I used the wonderful natural sweetener maple syrup, a pastured egg, vanilla extract and sea salt. How to Make Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a food processor, add in almond butter, almond flour, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, sea salt, baking soda and baking powder. Process the almond cookie mixture until it is smooth and well-combined. Add in cacao nibs and dark chocolate chips, and mix well. Chill the dough for 20 minutes. Shape cookies into circles, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake cookies for 10–12 minutes. Good luck keeping these keto almond butter cookies around very long! Similar Recipes If you’re looking for an alternative to this dark chocolate almond butter cookies recipe, here are a few options: Almond Butter Chocolate Cookies Recipe Soft, Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe The Best Lactation Cookies Recipe to Support Milk Supply Chewy, No-Bake Homemade Granola Bars Paleo Zucchini Brownies with Dark Chocolate Chips Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies Recipe DESCRIPTION These dark chocolate almond butter cookies are healthier than your average chocolate chip cookie, a crowd-pleaser and Paleo-friendly. INGREDIENTS 1 cup sprouted almond butter ½ cup almond flour ⅓ cup maple syrup 1 egg 1 tablespoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon baking powder ½ cup cacao nibs ½ cup dark chocolate chips, minimum 70% cacao INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350 F. In a food processor, add in almond butter, almond flour, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, sea salt, baking soda and baking powder. Stir in cacao nibs and dark chocolate chips. Chill dough for 20 minutes. Scoop a tablespoon of the dough and shape into cookies and place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10–12 minutes. NOTES If you want a little less chocolate, you can opt for just the dark chocolate chips or the cacao nibs. To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with an egg substitute, such as vinegar and baking soda. NUTRITION Serving Size: 1-2 cookies Calories: 113 Sugar: 8.1g Sodium: 137mg Fat: 5g Saturated Fat: 2.2g Unsaturated Fat: 2.8g Trans Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 15.6g Fiber: 3.9g Protein: 2.7g Cholesterol: 14mg To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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