The winter months bring with it cold weather, outdoor winter sports and of course chapped lips. During these chilly months, sometimes nothing is tastier than a nice, warm hot chocolate. Even a small chocolate bar can help improve your mood.
Did you know that there are some aspects of chocolate that are good for you? Your dentist in Bristol VA wants you to know it’s true! There are properties of chocolate that are good for your health, but most chocolate features so much sugar and calories that the good aspects get lost in the mix. Here are the ingredients of chocolate that are beneficial.
Polyphenols
This antioxidant compound is found in vegetables, tea, red wine, fruits, and coffee. It’s also found in chocolate and can reduce inflammation, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. Many cardiologists swear by the effects to protect the body from stroke and heart attack.
Polyphenols control inflammation in your mouth, as well. This could lead to fewer incidences of gingivitis.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter is what makes chocolate taste luxuriously smooth. It also has the tendency to coat the teeth, which helps prevent plaque buildup.
Cocoa Husk
The husk of cocoa beans features antibacterial properties which offset the destructive effects that sugar has on your teeth. It also has the possibility of boosting the mouth’s ability to ward off bacteria that could lead to tooth decay.
Unfortunately, the cocoa husk is usually disposed of when the chocolate is manufactured. Scientists have been evaluating how to incorporate these properties into mouthwash and other dental tools to boost oral health. Until then, we shouldn’t rush out and buy lots of chocolate quite yet.
While these properties of chocolate aren’t enough for us to justify eating all the time, it is perfectly okay to enjoy a little during these chilly months. As with most things in life, moderation is what’s most important. Chocolate is a better option than sticky and gummy sweets. Just make sure your brush after consumption and continue to follow a good oral health care regimen.
To keep up with your oral hygiene, make sure you’re scheduling your routine cleanings with your dentist in Bristol VA and Blountville VA. Contact our Bristol location at (276) 466-2028 or our Blountville location at (423) 217-1338 to pick the best date and time for you today.