Dark chocolate benefits for ageing, heart-health, brain function and more
OK, so it’s January, and we’re all full of good intentions and new year resolutions. I’m personally trying hard to snack less during the day, although I’ll always permit myself a little chocolate or two after dinner!
Dark chocolate health benefits continue to arrive with recent research showing cocoa flavanols supporting skin ageing gracefully and easing oxidative stress—one indulgent piece of chocolate at a time. No miracles here, just subtle science backing smoother skin and sharper minds as the years roll on.
I mean, look what it’s done for Steve and I – before and after shots
Dark Chocolate Antioxidants for Skin Health
High-cocoa dark chocolate delivers flavanols, potent antioxidants linked in studies to improved skin hydration, elasticity, and fewer wrinkles, especially on sun-exposed skin. One 24-week trial saw women enjoying 320mg flavanols daily gain noticeable skin benefits from better blood flow and less oxidative damage.
Cocoa Flavanols and Brain Ageing
These flavanols also nurture blood vessels, securing an EU-approved claim for maintaining healthy circulation at 200mg daily. Trials with older adults report modest boosts in memory and thinking speed, making “cocoa flavanols cognitive function” a potentially helpful ally for ageing well.
Heart Health from Dark Chocolate Polyphenols
Dark chocolate polyphenols further tame inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to “dark chocolate heart health” perks like steadier blood pressure—best from high-flavanol, minimally processed bars over milky sweets.
Savour Smart: Dark Chocolate Daily Dosage
The advice is not to guzzle, but instead to savour 10-20g of quality dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa) daily to tap flavanol benefits without sugar overload, per EFSA guidance on 200mg flavanols (roughly 10g high-flavanol chocolate) and UK moderation advice. It’s ideal for “is dark chocolate good for you?” seekers, paired with a balanced lifestyle.
Russell & Atwell’s Dark Chocolate Lineup
Our chocolates are made with levels of cocoa ranging from 35% (Milk) all the way up to 100% (Extra Dark). We’ve designed our chocolates to fill you up on flavour (not calories) from real food – like Fino de Aroma cocoa from Columbia, fresh organic double-cream and from the Cotswolds and British wildflower honey – all prepared in a kitchen-batch-process. Each chocolate piece is about 8grams or 50 calories – so two is a perfect amount within the 20g guidelines!
From Friday 16th launch – our Dark Milk Limited Edition is available as a creamy, entry-level invitation to the darker side.
