Dark Chocolate Benefits for Menopausal Women

Embracing Dark Chocolate: A Treat with Benefits

As Easter approaches, many of us start dreaming about chocolate bunnies and creamy treats. But why not skip the milk chocolate this year and indulge in some dark chocolate instead? It’s not just scrumptious; dark chocolate comes packed with various health benefits, particularly for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Studies have shown that dark chocolate, especially with high cocoa content, can help alleviate some symptoms of menopause, providing a delicious way to take care of our bodies.

Why Dark Chocolate is a Game Changer

Research from the UK and Europe has indicated that incorporating dark chocolate into your diet can help improve overall wellbeing for women during menopause. Dark chocolate, particularly varieties with 70% cocoa or higher, is rich in flavonoids that have been linked to improved hormone balance and a reduction in hot flashes (González-Alonso, 2021; Sweeney et al., 2022). The nutrients in dark chocolate also contribute to mood elevation, something every woman can appreciate during this transitional phase.

Additionally, swapping out milk chocolate for dark options can lead to better heart health. Milk chocolate often contains higher amounts of sugar and fat, which can negatively impact cardiovascular health. In contrast, dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants that promote vascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease (Canali et al., 2022).

Delicious Dark Chocolate Dessert Recipe

If you're ready to treat yourself to something delicious, try this fabulous dark chocolate dessert! Perfect for Easter gatherings or a cozy night in, this dessert pairs rich dark chocolate with walnuts, goji berries, and a hint of citrus zest.

What You’ll Need:

• 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)

• 100g walnuts, chopped

• 50g goji berries

• Zest of one orange- we loved this zester

• 3 large eggs

• 75g caster sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract- the strong natural flavour of this extract is delicious

• Pinch of salt

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over simmering water, stirring gently until smooth.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, caster sugar, and salt until fluffy. Add the melted chocolate and mix until combined.

4. Stir in the walnuts, goji berries, orange zest, and vanilla extract.

5. Pour the mixture into the lined baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set but still fudgy in the center.

6. Allow cooling slightly before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy your healthy dessert!

By incorporating dark chocolate into your Easter celebrations, you not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also embrace a treat that offers numerous health benefits. So go ahead, indulge guilt-free in a little dark chocolate bliss!