World Chocolate Day: It is difficult to live without chocolates. This sweet delight has remained everyone’s favorite since childhood days. Chocolates occupy a significant place in our lives. So, to celebrate the existence of chocolates, World Chocolate Day is observed on July 7.
History of Chocolate
It is hard to trace the exact origin of chocolates but researchers believe that it has a history of around 2000 years or even more than that. The word ‘Chocolate’ originated from the Aztec word “xocoatl”, which indicates bitter drinks brewed from cocoa beans. In ancient Mesoamerica (present-day Mexico), people would perceive cocoa beans as “Food of the Gods”.
Here are some of the health benefits of chocolate
Reduces stress: Chocolates help in reducing stress. It helps the body in bringing down the stress-causing hormone Cortisol level. Chocolate has the ability to make happy by releasing endorphins in the body
Lowers the risk of heart disease: It is believed that eating dark chocolate lowers the risk of heart disease. It also helps in preventing the issue of high blood pressure among adults
Weight management: Dark chocolate may aid weight loss through various mechanisms such as curbing your appetite and hunger pangs
Skin health: Dark chocolate does make your skin look youthful and fresh if consumed in limited quantities
Chocolates are high in antioxidants: Dark chocolate is believed to be loaded with antioxidants that are beneficial for the body
