As if you needed another reason to eat chocolate.
By Jim Perko, C.E.C. |

There are few things more satisfying to eat than chocolate. It’s been our “go-to” comfort food for generations when we need a pick me up or just something to go with our evening coffee. Now we know that studies confirm its nutritional benefit for our health, giving us a great reason to eat chocolate!

Why Chocolate is Skintastic
Natural cocoa and dark chocolate contains more phenolic antioxidants than most foods and may help the skin stay more hydrated and look better. What’s more, Yale University research found that cocoa flavanols protect the skin from ultraviolet damage, increase blood flow to the skin, increase density and thickness of the skin, decrease water loss from the skin and improve overall appearance of the skin. Flavanols, which are plant compounds naturally found in the cocoa bean, help to promote blood flow and dilate vessels. This action helps to deliver nutrients throughout the body, including to the skin.

And Has Fewer Calories Than You Think
Yes, 1 tablespoon of cocoa has only 12 calories, as well as 1 gram of fat, 10 percent of the daily recommended amount of copper and four percent of the daily recommendation of iron. One ounce of dark chocolate has 164 calories, 11 grams of fat (6 grams of saturated fat), 2 grams of fiber, 18 percent of the daily recommended amount of copper and 10 percent of the daily recommended amount of iron. Therefore, you can use part cocoa powder in recipes to cut the amount of chocolate and calories while still getting the great skintastic benefits!

MORE: Superfoods for Beauty

Chocolate Espresso Tofu Mousse Recipe
Make this fabulous recipe and you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of cocoa, but also the powerful nutritional benefits of tofu. Impress your family and guests by serving in a pedestal glass topped with shaved chocolate and some fresh raspberries. They’ll be glad you did and your skin will be all the better because of it.