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By Kay MacInnis, Registered Dietitian
Some sources are calling dark chocolate a “superfood” for the brain and body. Studies show consuming the right kind of chocolate regularly can benefit cognitive function, mood and heart/blood vessel health. The studies indicate that dark chocolate can keep your heart pumping and your brain sharp.
The flavanols absorbed when you consume dark chocolate penetrate and accumulate in the hippocampus, according to research. Long-term consumption of cocoa flavanols was noted to boost attention, working memory, processing speed and verbal fluency, particularly in elderly people with preexisting memory decline.
This does not mean you should consume candy bars daily – they tend to be high in sugar, fat and other processed ingredients. And the more chocolate is processed, the more flavanols are lost. Aim for an ounce of really dark chocolate every day. This food trend can fit into a plant-based, whole-food diet easily. Just monitor the quality and frequency of your dark chocolate intake.
* Note: A substitution of 1/4 cup all-purpose flour may be used in place of 1/3 cup cake flour.
Nutrition Information: 205 Calories, 6.1 grams fat, 55 mg. cholesterol, 5 grams protein, 34.2 grams carbohydrate, 91 mg. sodium.
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This is another in a weekly series of healthy recipes from Kay MacInnis, registered dietitian at Providence Health in Columbia, S.C.
Kay promotes health and wellness, helping cardiac and diabetes patients eat their way to healthier lives. She works in consultation with the trained chefs at Providence, combining her nutrition knowledge with their food prep know-how to create delicious, healthy dishes for patients and the public. She also conducts a number of health and wellness events for the public, including the monthly Providence Cooks! classes.
"She doesn't just give you the fish, she teaches you how to cook it."
– a Kay MacInnis fan and Providence Cooks! regular.