There may be health benefits to a daily piece of dark chocolate, so feast today during World Chocolate Day.

Lauded for its tremendous antioxidant potential, the flavonoids in cocoa, along with polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals, have been associated with benefits that include lowering cholesterol and stress levels, reducing blood pressure, preventing cognitive decline, and reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems. Studies have also shown possible benefits treating migraines and other vascular issues.

Note: Consuming milk chocolate or white chocolate, or drinking fat-containing milk with dark chocolate, appears to largely negate the health benefit.

Pictured above is a decadent chocolate walnut torte brushed with nocino (an italian walnut liqueur) and filled with fig preserves and and ganache. Surrounded by Belgian chocolate leaves, it is crowned with figs drenched in nocino, stuffed with ganache, & dipped in chocolate — all nestled in chocolate cups.

Photo by DistopianDreamgirl via CC license

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