Did you know you can have your cake and eat it too? Well, only if it’s chocolate. Research has shown benefits for your skin from eating dark chocolate high in flavonols (plant-based antioxidants).

These antioxidants give your skin protection against damaging UV rays. A well-known 2006 German study shows that women who drank flavonol-rich chocolate beverages suffered less from UV exposure than the women who didn’t drink the flavonol beverages. This study along with a 2009 study in The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology shows that 3.5 ounces of dark chocolate provides an SPF of 2 or 3. It’s better than nothing, but it should not replace your current sunscreen regimen.

If you’re out scanning the nutrition label of your favorite chocolates, you won’t find flavonoids there. Your best bet is to eat brands with at least 70% cacoa. So pack up the sunscreen and chocolate before you head to the beach!

If you have any questions about changes in your skin, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.