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When you were younger your parents may have tried to keep you away from eating candy. They may have told you it contained too much sugar, was bad for your teeth, etc. Today there are benefits to enjoying a piece of candy.

Chocolate is a candy that many wouldn’t believe has health benefits. Chocolate contains serotonin and phenylethylamine. These substances act as antidepressants and help increase people’s moods. Chocolate also contains flavonoids which are heart-healthy antioxidants. By enjoying a chocolate bar you actually lower your risk for heart disease. Chocolate can also help with your teeth. It has an anti-bacterial effect that helps reduce tooth decay.

If you are stressed out, pop a piece of gum in your mouth. Chewing gum is a muscle contraction that is actually an exercise. By chewing you are stimulating the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is in the brain and lowers heart rate. This allows you to feel relaxed and release tension.

Peppermint candy helps with memory and digestion. The ingredients in peppermint candy are peppermint oil and sugar, which stimulate the brain.  The peppermint scent increases your oxygen capacity and blood pressure. A higher amount of oxygen available to your brain equals more concentration and focus.

Chocolate and candy are mostly thought of in a negative way. Now they don’t have to be.