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Dr. Ryder on Fox10: Benefits of Dark Chocolate

In the Media
October 11, 2024•2 min read

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, there’s no better time to indulge in chocolate! But before you reach for just any kind, consider dark chocolate for its incredible health benefits. While it may be more bitter than its milk and white counterparts, dark chocolate can offer double the health perks and much lower sugar content.

Why Dark Chocolate is the Healthier Option

Dark chocolate comes from the theobroma cacao plant, using its seeds to create rich cocoa powder. This natural form of chocolate is packed with nutrients and is known to:

  • Lower blood pressure

  • Improve cardiovascular health

  • Elevate mood thanks to tryptophan and serotonin

  • Boost alertness with natural caffeine content

Compared to milk and white chocolate, which contain significantly more sugar, dark chocolate helps you indulge guilt-free.

Watch: Dr. Loreena Ryder Explains Why Dark Chocolate is Better for You

In this video, Dr. Loreena Ryder from Naturopathic Physicians Group breaks down the benefits of dark chocolate and how to incorporate it into your diet for optimal health.

What Percent of Dark Chocolate Should You Eat?

You’ve probably noticed that dark chocolate comes in different percentages. So what’s the healthiest? Dr. Ryder recommends aiming for chocolate with 70% to 85% cacao. You really only need about a nickel-sized portion to reap the health benefits, but if you’re indulging, rest assured that more dark chocolate won’t hurt!

How to Ease Into Dark Chocolate

Not everyone loves the bitter taste of dark chocolate. If you’re not a fan, here are some tips to make it easier to enjoy:

  • Drizzle over fruit: Adding dark chocolate over strawberries or bananas can give you the sweetness you're craving while maintaining the health benefits.

  • Pair with nuts: Omega-3 rich nuts can balance the bitterness and give you a satisfying, nutritious snack.

Looking to experiment more? Try making a chocolate avocado pudding or create your own Valentine’s Day treats that mix dark chocolate with wholesome ingredients.

The Bottom Line: Health in Every Bite

Dark chocolate offers a wealth of health benefits, from improving your heart health to boosting your mood. And while it may take some getting used to, there are plenty of ways to ease dark chocolate into your diet. So as you celebrate Valentine’s Day, indulge wisely!

Ready to Learn More About Healthy Eating?

At Naturopathic Physicians Group, we’re here to help you make informed choices for your well-being. Our naturopathic approach offers insights and solutions tailored to your health needs. Call us today at (480) 451-6161 to schedule your consultation and discover how we can support your journey to better health.

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Dr. Loreena Ryder is a prominent naturopathic physician in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializing in women's health, chronic pain management, and holistic primary care. With a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Dr. Ryder integrates naturopathic wisdom with advanced therapies to address the root cause of complex health challenges. As a mother of three daughters, she brings a unique understanding to women's health issues across all life stages. Dr. Ryder is dedicated to empowering patients with personalized, integrative treatment plans that restore balance and vitality naturally.

Dr. Loreena Ryder

Dr. Loreena Ryder is a prominent naturopathic physician in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializing in women's health, chronic pain management, and holistic primary care. With a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Dr. Ryder integrates naturopathic wisdom with advanced therapies to address the root cause of complex health challenges. As a mother of three daughters, she brings a unique understanding to women's health issues across all life stages. Dr. Ryder is dedicated to empowering patients with personalized, integrative treatment plans that restore balance and vitality naturally.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither Naturopathic Physicians Group nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement or lifestyle program.