Editor’s Note: This article is for informational purposes only. You should not use it to replace any professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any health issues. Any questions about your blood health should be directed toward a physician, hematologist, or other licensed healthcare professional.
Red wine and dark chocolate have long been enjoyed as indulgences, but these tasty treats can actually be beneficial to your health. Having red wine and dark chocolate in moderation are delicious ways to improve your overall health! From containing compounds that help improve blood circulation to providing a boost of iron, let’s explore how red wine and dark chocolate can help you feel better.
Benefits of Red Wine for Heart Health
Did you know that wine, a beverage long celebrated for its taste and sophistication, may also be beneficial to your heart? Back in 1979, a study1 uncovered an intriguing trend about countries where people who drank more wine typically showed lower rates of heart disease despite having diets higher in saturated fat. This quandary caused researchers to delve further into the potential health benefits associated with this beloved fermented drink.
Studies show that this delightful drink contains polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants known to fight inflammation and reduce levels of bad cholesterol2. Plus, a moderate amount consumed per day (one glass for women or two glasses for men) can also help protect against stroke due to its ability to prevent blood clots. Tip: The best time to drink red wine in moderation is around mealtime for optimal gains.
Benefits of Dark Chocolate for Iron Boosting
Dark chocolate is another indulgence with surprising health benefits. It contains flavonoids which are known to improve blood flow while helping reduce blood pressure. This contributes to better sleep quality, better mood, boosts your immunity, and protects your skin from sun damage3..
Additionally, dark chocolate contains high levels of iron, making it an ideal snack for those who are looking to boost their iron intake without having to take supplements or eat large amounts of meat. To maximize these benefits, the Cleveland Clinic suggests looking for dark chocolate bars with at least 70% cocoa solids. The higher the flavonoids percentage, the greater the nutritional value! Tip: To get maximum health gains, try having a piece after meals to benefit from polyphenols and reduce bad cholesterol.
Comparison
Red Wine vs White Wine
When it comes to taste, there’s no one-size-fits all answer when it comes to choosing between red and white wine, but many agree that for its bold flavor profile and added depth of character, red stands out as the go-to option. Red wine isn’t just tastier, it’s an excellent choice for promoting heart health compared to white wine! Sipping on the ruby beverage can better help reduce the risks associated with cardiovascular disease and increase overall wellness.
Dark Chocolate vs Milk and White Chocolate
If your heart needs a little pampering, always reach for dark chocolate. Indulging in a square of dark chocolate can be better for your heart compared to milk and white chocolate, as it contains more cocoa solids than its counterparts and is the least processed of them all.
Red wine and dark chocolate can both provide numerous benefits when consumed in moderation. From improved heart health thanks to red wine’s polyphenols to boost iron levels from eating dark chocolate, there are plenty of reasons why these decadent treats should be a part of your regular diet! So next time you’re craving something sweet or looking for a way to relax after a long day, cheers with your favorite bottle of red wine or reach for a bit of dark chocolate. Enjoy some healthy benefits while you’re at it!
References
St Leger, A. S., Cochrane, A. L., & Moore, F. (1979). Factors associated with cardiac mortality in developed countries with particular reference to the consumption of wine. Lancet (London, England), 1(8124), 1017–1020. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(79)92765-x
Fehér, J., Lengyel, G., & Lugasi, A. (2005). A bor kultúrtörténete, a borterápia elméleti háttere [Cultural history of wine, the theoretical background of wine therapy]. Orvosi hetilap, 146(52), 2635–2639.
Williams, S., Tamburic, S., & Lally, C. (2009). Eating chocolate can significantly protect the skin from UV light. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 8(3), 169–173. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1473-2165.2009.00448.x
