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Dark Chocolate Sun Protection Benefits

By Diane Hanson

So, you’ve heard – tomato, more specifically lycopene, protects your skin against skin cancer. How about dark chocolate is good for your skin, dark chocolate protects the skin from sunburn and can help fight against skin cancer?

German researchers have shown that eating chocolates rich in cocoa solids and flavonoids (flavanols) can fight skin cancer. Dark chocolates, not milk chocolates, have powerful antioxidant properties that can actually help shield you from damaging oxidative stress (free radical production), which is one of the main causes of skin aging.

Free radicals are highly reactive compounds and are produced when we are exposed to environmental pollutants such as radiation, smog, cigarette smoke, alcohol, and pesticides. Consuming grilled, smoked and preserved foods can also lead to an increased production of free radicals in your body. Free radical damage destroys collagen fibers that keep your skin tight, resulting in fines and wrinkles.

The flavonoids present in dark chocolates – the same antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains – are found to absorb harmful UV rays, and increase blood flow to the skin while improving the skin’s hydration, which in turn retards wrinkle formation. This is probably why dark chocolate also plays a key role in maintaining a youthful dewy complexion and preventing sunburn. Too much exposure to UV rays can foster the development of skin cancer.

However, keep in mind that you still need to get about 20 minutes of unprotected sun exposure (without sunscreen) so that your body can produce Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the absorption of calcium, which helps lower the risk of cancers of the breast and colon. It is also required for the development of strong bones and teeth, and for preventing osteoporosis.

Besides its sun-protection and skin-enhancing benefits, chocolate also has a positive impact on health because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This includes protect against heart disease, helps lower blood pressure and LDL “bad” cholesterol, and surprisingly, improve acne.

In addition, dark chocolate also stimulates the release of endorphins, chemicals that make you feel more peaceful and happy. It also boosts serotonin levels to fight depression.

Interestingly enough, the German researchers have noted that adding milk to chocolate cancels out the antioxidant benefits as milk interferes with the absorption of its antioxidants.

Remember, dark chocolate contains hefty doses of calories so consume no more than 3 ounces per day. It’s recommended that you consume dark chocolate with at least 70 percent pure cocoa, which has higher amounts of flavonoids and they’re usually more expensive.

Alternatively, you can also apply dark chocolate externally to reap the potent antioxidant benefits it offers. But, make sure to consult a dermatologist as it may acne flare-ups due to inherent high fat content– cocoa butter and oleic acid. Try this ultra rich, super moisturizing chocolate facial mask only if you've overly dry skin.

In a bowl, combine ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (one that has not undergone Dutch processing) with 3 tablespoons heavy cream. Stir in 3 teaspoons oatmeal and about ¼ cup manuka honey. Mix all ingredients well. Apply onto clean face and neck. Wait for about 15-20 minutes, and then rinse out with lukewarm water for smoother skin. This chocolate mask can be used to soften rough heels, knees and elbows too.

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