What happens when you eat chocolate daily
Chocolate is loved by all of us. Whether it is dark, milk, plain, or sugar-free, it is a pure indulgence that uplifts the mood and palate. According to a report by The Hindu Businessline, Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday claimed that Amul sells the highest number of sugar-free chocolates in India, even as the dairy cooperative’s fast-growing chocolates business has quietly crossed annual sales of around ₹1,400 crore.
What did Amit Shah say?
Amit Shas was addressing a gathering at the inauguration of the newly-built plant of Madhur Dairy in Gandhinagar, where he said, “The sugar-free version of Amul chocolate is the number one selling sugar-free chocolate in India. It is a big achievement." While he didn't disclose any sales figures or market share data to substantiate the claim, Jayan Mehta, Managing Director of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), later told businessline that Amul currently sells chocolates worth around ₹1,400 crore annually and registered nearly 50 percent growth in the category last year.
What else he said
Amul is the market leader in the dark chocolate category in India, states the report. Amul Sagr Free Dark Chocilate contributes almost 10 percent of the company's total chocolate sales. It is also the leading bran in this category natioanlly," Mehta told The Businessline.
It is also reported thwt Amul has steadily expanded its chocolate portfolio over the years and currently sells nearly 35 varieties, including milk, dark, white, single-origi, and wafers chocolates and filled bars.
In his statement Shah, also said that Madhur's Dairy's new milk processing facility is built at a cost of Rs 128 crore on 15 acres in Dashela village of Gandhinagar. It has the capacity to process 2.5 lakh litres of milk daily, which can be expanded to 5 lakh litres per day, he concluded. As per the report, Madhur Dairy currently has an annual sales turnover os Rs 628 crore.
4 benefits of eating chocolate: Good for heart
According to experts, dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants that help improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure. They also help relax blood vessels and lower the risk of heart diseases. It can lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels and help prevent plaque buildup in arteries. Also, antioxidants protect the heart from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation.
Boost brain health
It is said that flavonoids present in cocoa increase blood flow to the brain, which may improve memory, concentration, and cognitive performance. It is also said that eating chocolate can help people stay mentally alert and may even reduce the risk of age-related memory decline. And caffeine found in chocolate is said to increase focus and energy levels. According to experts, chocolate contains small amounts of caffeine and theobromine, natural stimulants that can increase alertness and concentration. Unlike strong caffeinated drinks, chocolate provides a milder and steadier energy boost.
Chocolate also contains magnesium, which supports healthy nerve function and may help reduce stress and mental fatigue. Better relaxation and reduced stress levels can contribute to improved brain performance.
Improve mood and reduce stress
Chocolate is said to stimulate the production of endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones, in the brain. It is also said to contain serotonin, a chemical that acts as a natural antidepressant. According to experts, even a small piece of chocolate can help improve emotional health. Another reason chocolate improves mood is its mild caffeine and theobromine content, which may increase energy and alertness without causing a strong stimulant effect.
Rich in antioxidants
Chocolate is said to contain antioxidants that protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Dark chocolate contains powerful antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavanols, which help strengthen the immune system and protect cells from damage. According to experts, the antioxidants in chocolate may also help improve heart health, support brain function, reduce stress on cells, and strengthen the immune system. The more cocoa present in the chocolate, the richer it is in beneficial plant compounds. Chocolates with 70% cocoa or more are often considered better sources of antioxidants.
4 easy dishes made with sugar-free chocolate
While the easiest way is to take a bite of chocolate bar, but if you keen to add more nutrition to it and make chocolate even more exotic, try these dishes.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Mug Cake: It is as simple mug cake, and can be made in just a few minutes. It is rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings without added sugar. To make it, you need chocolate, almond flour, egg, milk, baking powder, and coconut oil.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Banana Smoothie: The sugar-free chocolate banana smoothie is a healthy and refreshing drink, perfect for breakfast. For this, you need banana, cocoa powder, milk cube, and sugar-free chocolate.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Energy Balls: For these energy balls, you need oats, cocoa powder, peanut butter, nuts, and vanilla essence.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Shake: For this, you need to blend full-fat milk along with sugar-free chocolate and some nuts of your choice. Enjoy it chilled!
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