30 Affordable Healthy Foods We Should All Eat More

30. Dark Chocolate

Best Place to Buy: Whole Foods

Avg. Price: $2 per bar*

Benefits: Heart health, anti-aging

When chocolate's cocoa content surpasses 70%, it transforms from a dessert into a health food. Firstly, cocoa powder is extremely rich in antioxidants that combat cell aging and inflammation within the body. Additionally, dark chocolate provides substantial potassium, an important electrolyte for proper kidney function.

Dark chocolate may also have protective effects on cardiovascular health. Studies show the flavonoids in cocoa can improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure through anti-inflammatory effects and by increasing insulin sensitivity and preventing blood clot formation. Research also indicates cocoa flavonoids may enhance blood vessel elasticity and thereby lower blood pressure.