Dark Chocolates

It's more than wishful thinking - chocolates are good for you.

Studies have revealed that eating dark chocolates may contribute to improved cardiovascular health by improving blood flow, reducing blood pressure and reducing the strain on the heart. Dark chocolates also have mild anti-blood clotting effects and help prevent the build-up of plaque that can block arteries. 

There is a 'feel good' factor present in the chocolates. Chocolate is packed with natural compounds called antioxidants which helps in reducing the risk of many kinds of illness, from heart disease to cancer. These antioxidants work by protecting the cells from damaging molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are basically unstable oxygen molecules that can trigger changes in the structure of normally healthy cells. Dark chocolates have more antioxidants than do foods like blueberries, green tea and red wine. It contains all the vital minerals required by the body.

Copper -

It is a critical mineral that aids in the absorption of iron and is a key component of enzymes that form skin strengthening collagen. It also contributes to heart health.

Magnesium -

It helps in reducing the risk of several chronic illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Some of the symptoms of magnesium deficiency can include leg cramps, migraines, fatigue, loss of appetite, depression, nausea and vomiting.

Potassium -

It is considered as a key factor in affecting blood pressure and stroke. The more potassium present in the body, the less likelihood of developing high blood pressure or stroke.

Iron -

The main function of the iron is to help carry oxygen from the lungs to the muscles and other organs. If the iron content in the body is insufficient then fatigue, irritability and headache may occur. If the iron deficiency becomes significant, a person can become anemic.      

Chocolate is one of the nature's most concentrated sources of theobromine, a mild stimulant and molecular cousin of caffeine. However, unlike caffeine, it does not strongly stimulate the central nervous system. Theobromine has also been shown to reduce coughing and has been used in 'natural cough medicine'. While safe for humans, other species, such as dogs, lack the specific enzyme that metabolizes theobromine, so eating chocolate can cause them to become overstimulated. That is why it is strongly recommended that pet owners prevent dogs from eating chocolates.                                                                                          

Varieties of Apples

Eating and drinking apples and apple juice, in conjunction with a balanced diet can protect the brain from the effects of oxidative stress and apples are one of the anti-oxidants rich fruits. Apple contains vitamins like Vitamin C, Beta-Carotene, iron, potassium etc., apples are also very rich in mineral contents, malic acid which are good in normalizing the intestines.

There are different varieties of apples and each category has its own benefits.
Green Apples -
These are good for strong bones and teeth, aids for vision and in strengthening the gums. Eating fresh green apples prevent formation of plaque on the teeth. It also has anti-cancer properties. Green apples are found to be effective in reducing the risks and chances of neurodegenerative diseases like the schizophrenia, dementia, the Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.

Green apples can give relief from constipation, diarrhea, gout etc. These apples are also known for lowering blood cholesterol, stabilizing  blood sugar and improving appetite. It does not contain any cholesterol so helpful for people who are trying to reduce their weight.

Yellow Apples -
These are good for heart and eyes. These apples contain around three to five grams of fiber in each serving. The high levels of fiber helps in digestive support. A specific type of fiber called pectin helps in improving the digestive system. These apples are very good for baking, making apple sauce or apple butter. The apple skin contains a nutrient called quercetin, which is used to reduce the impact of allergens on the body.

A yellow delicious apple contain no sodium and proteins. It provide approximately 80 calories per serving. It contains good amount of Vitamin C. These apples contain no saturated fats, trans fats or cholesterol. It also contains a variety of flavonoids, which serve to produce inflammation and blood pressure.

Red Apples -
These apples help in improving the memory functions. Red apples have highest concentration of anti-oxidants which helps in fighting off many diseases. It lowers cholesterol and improves digestion. It also increases the immune system of human body. These are also helpful in maintaining the urinary tract health. These apples provide healthy and beautiful skin, hair and nails.

                                                             

The red delicious apples are rich in sugar but contains no fats. It contains proteins and has approximately 130 calories per serving. These apples are good source of calcium, potassium, phosphorous and magnesium. These contain vitamins A, B-1, B-2, B-6, C, E, K.
It is suggested that the apples should not be peeled because the skin on the apples has more than six times the disease-fighting chemical than the fruit on the inside.