Dark chocolate is an excellent source of antioxidants, but an American brand recently hit the headlines for having dangerous levels of heavy metals. However, studies have proven that dark chocolate is healthier for you than other forms of chocolate. 

A 2015 study found that flavonoids in dark chocolate send signals to our arteries to relax and reduce blood pressure.

However, an article published in the ConsumerReports.org discovered that when they tested the levels of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in 28 different types of dark chocolate bars from various brands, the results were alarming. Five of the 28 examined had lead and cadmium levels that were greater than what is deemed acceptable for consumption of both cadmium and lead.

High quantities of these metals have been shown to be harmful to human ingestion. They can cause various developmental issues in fetuses, so pregnant women are advised to avoid any traces of it in their diet. It is especially unsafe for young children since it might impair brain development and reduce IQ. According to a study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, chronic kidney damage can be caused by long-term cadmium exposure.

Experts recommend that whether it’s chocolate or health food, processed foods contain certain chemicals or hazardous additives. But in today’s busy lifestyle, avoiding processed foods is impossible. Hence the best alternative is to seek natural alternatives and maintain a healthy

lifestyle.

(Source:https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/be-careful-this-new-study-says-dark-chocolate-may-not-be-as-healthy-as-we-think-8406690/)