Dark chocolate is the ultimate. Hell, I’ll be the first to stand up and clap for that. I’m so much of a fan that even I used to date (I kind of use that term loosely; it was more like “kicked it” for quite some time) someone who I nicknamed “Godiva” because that’s how dark, rich and smooth his skin was (whew-whee!). Okay, but let me stay on topic.
As someone who also likes dark chocolate in its edible form, I’ve actually known about the many ways that dark chocolate can benefit my health for several years now. Today, I simply want to share the wealth with all of you. The key is not to read this and then rush over to the candy aisle in your favorite grocery store. Nah, to get all of the goodness listed here, you’ve got to be prepared to eat the kind of dark chocolate that is so pure, it kind of has a bit of a chalky taste and texture (I’m just being honest).
Sure, it won’t be the sweetest experience on the planet yet, but after you get used to it, I can assure you that it will become one of the favorite parts of your day, as far as contributing to your health and well-being goes. Are you ready to find out the dark chocolate health benefits that make eating it so awesome and amazing for you? For starters, here are 12 proven reasons.
Dark Chocolate Health Benefits
1. Dark Chocolate Is Basically a Multivitamin
Getty Images
So long as you’re consuming dark chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cocoa, you can be sure that you’re getting a good amount of fiber, magnesium, copper, manganese, and iron in your system. Not only that but dark chocolate also contains zinc, antioxidants, potassium, and selenium as well. So, if you’re looking for something that will give you a boost of nutrients in just a couple of bites, eating 1-2 squares of a dark chocolate bar can absolutely do the trick.
Just make sure that you go with a brand that contains a high amount of cocoa, and a low amount of sugar and that you only keep bars around for two years max (because yes, dark chocolate does have an expiration date).
2. It’s Got Cognitive Benefits
At the end of the day, flavonoids are compounds that are found in plants, fruits, veggies, and leaves. That said, something else that dark chocolate has in it is this compound. That’s good to know because there are studies that indicate that flavonoids can help to increase blood flow to the brain in a way that can help to improve your memory and increase your attention span. Other studies reveal that flavonoids can help to prevent dementia later on in life as well.
3. It Protects Your Skin from UV Rays
Getty Images
One way that you can protect your skin from the sun, from the inside out, is to eat dark chocolate. It’s beneficial in this way because dark chocolate contains bioactive compounds and the antioxidants, phenols, and catechins that all work together to shield your skin from getting sunburn or, worse — skin cancer. And although melanated skin is not as vulnerable to either of these, that doesn’t mean we’re still not at risk. Always remember that. Yeah, eat some chocolate (use sunscreen, too!) to stay on top of avoiding these skin-related health problems.
4. Dark Chocolate Is Good for Your Skin in Other Ways Too
Magnesium can help to prevent breakouts. Copper helps to promote the production of collagen. Iron reduces the appearance of dark circles underneath your eyes and helps to give your skin a nice glow. Zinc helps to reduce skin inflammation. Antioxidants will help your skin retain moisture, soften the appearance of wrinkles, and give your skin more elasticity. Since dark chocolate contains all of these nutrients, I’m sure you can see where I’m going with this.
A word of caution, though: There are some studies that say that dark chocolate can trigger breakouts in people who already have acne-prone skin. The main reason is that sometimes dark chocolate is able to stimulate the bacteria that cause pimples in the first place. If anything, this is an additional reminder to eat dark chocolate that is as pure as possible and to not overdo it if acne is something that is a consistent issue for you.
5. It Strengthens Your Hair and Nourishes Your Scalp
Getty Images
There are a few reasons why dark chocolate is good for your hair’s health and well-being. Since it contains anti-inflammatory properties, it makes it easier for nutrients to get to your hair follicles and ultimately strengthen your hair. If dandruff is what you struggle with, the zinc in dark chocolate can help to reduce the flaking, itchiness, and irritation. And since dark chocolate is full of iron, consuming it can help to prevent hair loss, too (since hair loss is oftentimes directly tied to an iron deficiency).
6. Dark Chocolate Reduces Stress
Heart disease. Asthma. Diabetes. Accelerated aging. Obesity. Guess what all of these things have in common? They are health-related issues that are directly connected to increased stress levels. Now, guess what can help out in the stress department? Yep, you guessed it: dark chocolate. The bottom line here is the stress hormone cortisol doesn’t like dark chocolate very much.
That’s because, when you consume it, the properties that are in the chocolate actually lower cortisol levels so that you feel calmer and more relaxed. Yeah, this dark chocolate thing just keeps on getting better and better, doesn’t it?
7. It Hardens Tooth Enamel
Getty Images
If there’s one thing that you need to go out of your way to preserve, it’s the enamel that is on your teeth. The reason why is because, although you can remineralize it, what you can’t do is grow it back. That’s because, although tooth enamel is reportedly the hardest tissue that your body produces because it’s not comprised of living cells, once it’s gone…it’s gone. Now watch this: something that can help to harden tooth enamel is dark chocolate. That’s due to a compound in it known as CBH.
Know what else? Some medical professionals say that there are other properties in dark chocolate that seem to be even more effective than fluoride when it comes to keeping tooth decay at bay. Now, how wild is that?
8. It Lowers Your Blood Pressure
Are you someone who deals with hypertension? There are studies that say that the compounds in dark chocolate can help to dilate blood vessels. This is a good thing because that helps to increase blood flow throughout your body, which ultimately lowers your blood pressure in the process. Something else to keep in mind is there are properties in dark chocolate that can lower your bad cholesterol levels (your LDL cholesterol) as they increase your good ones (your HDL cholesterol levels).
9. Dark Chocolate Is Good for Your Gut
Getty Images
Eighty percent of your immunity is in your gut. And just what role does dark chocolate play in that lil’ tidbit of information? Well, according to science, the fiber and antioxidants that are in cocoa are actually fermented within your digestive tract. That’s helpful intel because that is what helps to nurture the microbes within your body that fight against inflammation. As a bonus, due to dark chocolate’s high fiber content, it can help to make digestion (and elimination) easier, too.
10. It Boosts Your Mood
Speaking of your gut health, did you know that when it’s not in the best state, it can significantly alter your moods? On the flip side, when your gut is good, you can find yourself having more energy and feeling happier as well. It is definitely, something to keep in mind if it’s that time of the month or you’re looking for something to get you through the workday after your lunch break.
11. It Can Help You to Lose Weight
Getty Images
Although it might sound a bit contradictory, remember that getting all of these benefits from dark chocolate means that you are not eating a dark chocolate Snickers. What you are eating kind of takes a bit of getting used to because the purer dark chocolate is, the more it can kind of taste bittersweet. With that being reiterated, there is science to back up that dark chocolate can even help you lose weight.
Since it can help you to eliminate toxins, reduce hunger cravings, and even improve your insulin sensitivity — and since all of this plays a direct role in shedding a few pounds…if you’re looking for a worthwhile weight-loss snack, dark chocolate is something that you should definitely consider. For this and the wonderful 11 other reasons mentioned above.
12. Dark Chocolate Makes Sex Better
If you’ve heard somewhere that dark chocolate is a surefire aphrodisiac, there is indeed some truth to that. Aside from the fact that the antioxidants in it can give you energy to “get the job done,” there are properties in the chocolate that help to trigger feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin. There are even science-based studies that say women who consume chocolate on a consistent basis tend to have a higher sex drive than those who don’t. And if that doesn’t get you interested in upping your dark chocolate intake, chile, I don’t know what will!
Now, when are you gonna go and treat yo’ self to some? Today…right? Perfect.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by IC Productions/Getty Images
- 12 Superfoods That Every Woman Should Eat On The Regular ›
- 10 Fall Food Trends That You're Absolutely Gonna Love ›
- 10 Warm Drinks That Are The Perfect De-Stressors ›
- 10 Superfoods Every Woman Should Eat On The Regular ›
RELATED
The show is exactly what you’d expect when you put a media pro and a sports legend together—a mix of real talk, unfiltered moments, and guest interviews that feel like family kickbacks. As the duo wraps up their first season, Rocsi sat down with xoNecole to talk about teaming up with Deion, the wildest moments on set, and why streaming platforms like Tubi are shaking up the talk show world.
Scoring the Gig & Clicking Instantly with Deion
Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence
Deion Sanders had been dreaming of hosting a talk show, and when Tubi came calling, it was only right he made it happen. But before he found the perfect co-host, he held auditions with different women for the spot.
Lucky for us, Rocsi threw her hat in the ring, and the connection was instant. “You just can’t buy chemistry like we have,” she tells us. “We are legit like big brother, little sister—fighting, cracking jokes, telling each other off. When you watch the show, it’s like watching family.”
Mixing News, Culture & Sports—Minus the Snooze
With We Got Time Today, Rocsi and Deion cover everything from the latest headlines to celebrity tea and, of course, sports. But instead of stiff, rehearsed segments, the show keeps it loose and unpredictable.
“We’re not breaking the mold—it’s not rocket science,” Rocsi jokes. “We just bring our own flair, our authenticity, and our personalities to it. Deion has firsthand experience in sports, so when we talk about athletes, he brings a different perspective.”
And the best part? Unlike traditional talk shows that rush through quick interviews, We Got Time Today actually takes its time. “A lot of shows might give you one or two segments with a guest,” Rocsi says. “With us, we actually sit down and have real-life conversations.”
Her Top Guests (So Far!)
From music icons to relationship experts, the show has already had some unforgettable guests—but a few stand out for Rocsi.
“Ice Cube was our first guest, and he’s just legendary,” she says. “Kirk Franklin had us cracking up when he broke into a full choir freestyle for our Christmas special. And anytime we get Dr. Bryant on to put Deion in the hot seat? That’s my favorite!”
And of course, there’s Nick Cannon. “Nick was amazing,” she adds. “You already know he’s going to bring the energy and say something wild.”
Tag-Team Hosting with Deion: The Inside Scoop
While Deion Sanders is best known for his football greatness, Rocsi says he’s also one of the funniest people she’s ever worked with.
“He’s goofy—like, really goofy,” she laughs. “A lot of people didn’t know that side of him, but now they do. He can crack a joke, and if you’re too sensitive, good luck, because he will go in. But the best part? I throw it right back at him! Sometimes we just look at each other like, ‘Okay, that was a good one.’”
But beyond the laughs, she admires his insane work ethic. “Watching him juggle everything he does is just super admirable,” she says.
How "We Got Time Today" Brings That "106 & Park" Energy
Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
For those wondering if We Got Time Today feels like 106 & Park 2.0, Rocsi says it’s a whole different vibe.
“The only comparison I’d make is that it’s a destination for the culture,” she explains. “It’s a platform where our people can come, feel safe, and have real conversations. But other than that, this is Deion’s world—we’re just having fun in it.”
The Talk Show Shake-Up: Why This Show Hits Different
Unlike traditional networks, We Got Time Today lives exclusively on Tubi, proving that streaming platforms are changing how we watch talk shows.
“Tubi is giving more people opportunities and making content more accessible,” Rocsi says. “Deion is a huge Tubi fan—he literally loves Black cinema—so it just made sense for him. And honestly? He’s got me watching it too!”
Real Ones Only: Women Holding Each Other Down
Rocsi credits her best friend, Chantelle, for always keeping her grounded. “She kept pouring into me, reminding me of who I am,” she shares. Even Deion Sanders makes sure to give her flowers, often calling her “the hostess with the most.”
In the industry, she’s built lasting bonds with women like Julissa Bermundez, Angie Martinez, and Angela Yee. “Julissa and I still kick it—her house is basically Sephora, so I just shop there,” she jokes. She also cherishes her friendships with Melyssa Ford and Robin Roberts, who have offered unwavering support. “Robin has always been there for me,” Rocsi says, reflecting on the wisdom she’s gained from the legendary journalist.
With the show’s first season wrapping up, Rocsi is grateful for the experience and excited for what’s next. “We’re having a good time, and the audience can feel that,” she says.
And if you haven’t tuned in yet? Well, Rocsi and Deion got time—so you might as well make some too.
Catch We Got Time Today now streaming on Tubi!
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by Leon Bennett/Getty Images
10 of those things are listed down below. And although each of them can benefit you, health-wise, in a myriad of different ways, today we’re going to solely focus on how all of them can be relied upon to get your skin into the kind of condition that you’ve always wanted it to be.
1. Coconut Water Serum
Unsplash
If you want to get a bit more potassium or antioxidants in your system, coconut water can make that happen. Since potassium is something that helps to keep hydration in your skin and antioxidants are awesome at slowing down the signs of aging, these are already two wonderful reasons to consume coconut water consistently. Aside from that, coconut water is also good for your skin because it contains antimicrobial properties that help to prevent breakouts, plus, it is a solid source of vitamin C which helps to boost collagen production so that your skin has more elasticity.
Wanna hydrate your skin from the outside in? Check out this Coconut Water and Jojoba Oil recipehere.
2. Papaya Masks
Getty Images
A fruit that also contains a lot of vitamin C and antioxidants is papaya. It also has an impressive amount of Vitamin A in it which is good to know becausevitamin A is a nutrient that can help reduce skin sagging, decrease hyperpigmentation, and even soothe the symptoms that are associated with psoriasis. Since papaya features properties that also fight inflammation, it can help to speed up the healing process of pimples and, if you’re looking forfree radicals to stay far away from your skin, papaya can do that for you as well.
Looking for a gentle way to exfoliate your skin while soothing any skin irritation that you may have at the same time? Check out this DIY Papaya Maskhere.
3. Bone Broth
Unsplash
I am someone who enjoys cooking withbone broth. If you’ve always wondered exactly what it is, bone broth is simply the nutrients that come from animal bones after they’ve been soaking in water for a long period of time.Since bone broth is packed with everything from protein and calcium to magnesium and amino acids, it’s definitely something that can give your skin a boost of health from the inside out. Specifically, the amino acids in bone broth help to reduce inflammation and help you get a good night’s rest (which is paramount as far as achieving glowing skin is concerned).
Also,the collagen that’s in bone broth can help to make your skin firmer and more youthful-looking. So, if you want to proactively help out your skin, cook with bone broth more often. Within a matter of weeks, you should notice a difference.
4. Black Cumin Seed Oil Cleanser
Getty Images
I ain’t got not one lie to tell you — when it comes to something that is holistically beneficial for your health, black cumin seed oil is that one. So much, in fact, that there are several articles out in cyberspace (like this onehere) that list over 100 ways that it can do wonders for your overall health and well-being. Your skin will adore this particular oil becauseit contains properties that fight acne, treat psoriasis and eczema, andhelp to dissolve warts. Also, this oil contains antibacterial and antiviral properties that help to keep your skin healthy, in general.
If you’re looking for an all-natural way to deeply cleanse your skin, black cumin seed oil can certainly be of great assistance. You can read more about why and how by goinghere.
5. Watermelon Skin Toner
Getty Images
On the palate tip, few things make me happier than cubes of watermelon (when it’s in season, which is typicallybetween May and September). Since it consists of92 percent water, you know that watermelon is going to hydrate your skin — plus, the vitamin C that’s in it will do a good job of increasing your skin’s collagen production. Some other great things about watermelon (as far as your skin is concerned) is ithelps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and it can evenhelp to even out your skin tone.
A super refreshing way to tone and tighten your skin is to use a toner that has watermelon in it. A quick and easy recipe that will help you to do just that is locatedhere.
6. Hemp Milk Soap
Unsplash
At the end of the day, hemp milk is a milk alternative that is made by mixing water and seeds from the Cannabis sativa plant (yes, the plant that makes weed) together. Since there are a lot of fatty acids in hemp milk, that automatically makes it “skin worthy” because fatty acids help to hydrate your skin, improve the texture of your skin, and reverse some of the environmental damage that your skin may be experiencing. Since there are also vitamins A, D, and E in hemp milk, that makes it beneficial for your skin as well because vitamin A can help to unclog your pores, vitamin D can help to cultivate new skin cells, and vitamin E can help to smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you’re looking for a way to soothe your entire body with hemp milk, there’s a cool (albeit ingredient-rich) recipe for how to make hemp milk soaphere.
7. Tomato Paste Mask
Unsplash
It’s not that I don’t like tomatoes, it’s just that…if I go months without eating one, I don’t really notice. I wish that wasn’t the case too becausetomatoes are a good source of fiber, folate, Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and potassium.Your skin needs beta-carotene because it’s an antioxidant that helps to protect it from UV damage and it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that you might have. Some other benefits that come withusing tomatoes for your skin are they reduce skin inflammation, boost collagen production, help to prevent cellular damage and they work well as a skin exfoliant.
So long as your skin isn’t super sensitive (because there is a fair amount of acid that’s in this particular fruit), it will be so happy that you’ve given it a face mask that has tomatoes as one of its main ingredients. StyleCraze has many for you to choose from. Gohere to check ‘em all out.
8. Fig Face Polish
Unsplash
If you’ve always wondered whatthe difference is between a fig and a date, let’s get free today. Although they both are fruits, figs contain more calcium, aren’t as sweet or sticky and they also have fewer wrinkles than dates do. On the skin health tip, figs contain fiber which helps you to stay regular which can help to detox your system and prevent breakouts.Figs also contain nutrients that can help to speed up the healing process of symptoms that are associated with dermatitis and eczema.
If you’re looking for something that will deeply hydrate and moisturize your skin, figs can do that. Figs also have a pretty good reputation when it comes to removing dead skin cells so that your skin’s texture will be soft and smooth; this is partly thanks to the antioxidants that are in them.
Ready for your skin to have a brilliant glow? Check out this fig face polish recipehere.
9. Aloe Vera and Honey Facials
Getty Images
There was actually a season in my life when I used todrink Aloe vera juice. Although I preferred to mix it with juice, I must admit that I could tell that it was good for me when it came tomy digestive system. I’m pretty sure that my skin enjoyed it as well, seeing that Aloe vera, internally, also helps to hydrate skin and keep it well-moisturized. If you actually use the gel on your skin,it can help to heal inflammatory acne, speed up the healing process of eczema and psoriasis symptoms and it can even assist withminimizing the appearance of pores.
As far as honey and your skin go, it’s dope because the properties in it will help to treat issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, it can soften the appearance of acne scars and it can even brighten your complexion over time.
If you’re someone who is all about DIY facials, this DIY Aloe & Honey Face Mask (here) will absolutely get you right.
10. Zinc Gel for Glass Skin
Unsplash
A mineral that your skin definitely needs you to have in your system on a consistent basis is zinc. Studies have proven that zinc can do everything for your skin fromhelping to prevent and heal acne and providing it with protection from the sun tosoothing the symptoms that are associated with eczema and rosacea andhelping to repair DNA damage that could lead to signs of aging. Zinc-enriched foods that can help you to receive these perks internally includelamb, lentils,pecans, shiitake mushrooms, and fortified cereals.
Something else that is high in zinc — chia seeds. That said, if you like the look thatglass skin provides, you can actually make a homemade gel that can help you achieve that look. The instructions that will help you to do so are locatedhere.
____
All of these are edible ways to achieve beautiful skin, whether you eat them or apply them.
Give them a shot. They’re delicious (inside) and easy (outside) ways to achieve your skin goals without any of the sometimes expensive, chemical-filled drama that comes with a lot of these commercial brands out here. And that’s just the truth.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by DragonImages/Getty Images