The Sweet Benefits of Your Dark Chocolate Valentine’s Day Candy!

Valentine’s Day may leave some people feeling guilty; there is so much chocolate! We are here to tell you to feel guilty NO MORE! Indulging in dark chocolate is not only a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth but has a variety of health benefits.

So what are the benefits? Allow our Colorado insurance agency to tell you:

  • Dark chocolate has been proven to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol;
  • Dark chocolate is full of healthy antioxidants that are able to fight off heart disease;
  • Dark chocolate can help prevent heart disease by inhibiting the oxidation of LDL cholesterol;
  • Dark chocolate contains serotonin, a feel-good chemical that acts as an anti-depressant;
  • The level of serotonin may help eliminate pain for women during PMS;
  • The release of pleasurable endorphins and dopamine may increase sexual arousal and bliss;
  • Only 1/3 of the fat in dark chocolate is bad for your health. Much better than milk chocolate!

As long as you eat your dark chocolate truffles in moderation, you should stop feeling so guilty! The health benefits of dark chocolate are definitely worth the little indulgence.

Our Colorado insurance agency hopes you have enjoyed these health facts and we hope you come back for future tips! We always have health advice to offer and reliable health insurance, too. Do not hesitate to contact us for a free quote!

Until then, enjoy your Valentine’s Day and that dark chocolate rose!

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Sprinkle on the Healthy Holiday Spices This Thanksgiving!

How are your dishes looking so far? Many Americans have already started to prepare for Thursday’s feast! For those who are cooking, we have a few spices to talk about. Did you know that many holiday spices not only add flavor but can add years to your life? As your trusty Texas insurance agency, we are here to inform you on the benefits in your spice cabinet.

Don’t forget to spice up your dishes with these healthy seasonings:

#1: Cinnamon. Go cinnamon crazy in your pumpkin pie! Just a half-teaspoon can help fight against bad cholesterol and aid diabetics in lowering their blood sugar. Cinnamon also increases blood and oxygen flow to the brain, keeping your brain sharp and raising memory levels.

#2: Nutmeg. This spice is sure to calm your nerves and anxiety this holiday season. Nutmeg is made up of myristicin, which is known to boost levels of serotonin, a relaxation inducing hormone. Sprinkle some nutmeg in your coffee, latte or even eggnog for a healthy dose!

#3: Allspice. Being known for relaxing your digestive tract and stomach makes Allspice a must on Thanksgiving Day. Sprinkle it on your sweet potato or candied yams.

#4: Ginger. Add some ginger to your life! This spice is known to work against pain, headaches and even migraines. Goodbye holiday headaches!

#5: Cloves. Cloves are packed with a powerful anti-inflammatory known as eugenol. Eugenol can reduce pain and swelling by up to 30%. It can also help ease the pain in your mouth, including teeth and gums.

#6: Peppermint. This soothing spice is not only delicious but helps settle the stomach and wake up the senses.

These holiday seasonings will not only enhance your dishes this Thanksgiving, but give a little health boost to all of your guests. Remember, you do not only need to use these spices only around the holidays, either. You can never be too healthy!

If you are concerned about your health or wellbeing, be sure to speak with a doctor. Our Texas insurance agency can provide you with great health insurance, so you do not have to worry about visiting fees and prescription costs.

Have a Spicy Thanksgiving!

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Percentage of Teens Dying From Cardiac Arrest Rising: How To Prevent It

When the heart abruptly shuts down, it is referred to as “sudden cardiac death.”  This is often the last stage of a heart attack and most frequently happens to people in their 60s and 70s.

However, a recent report by Centers for Disease Control claims that more and more children and teenagers are dying from cardiac arrest.  In the last ten years, the statistics have grown alarmingly high:  there are 3,000 deaths due to cardiac arrest annually among Americans in the age range of 15-34.

Studies show that the main factors of this rise in deaths involve clogged arteries and obesity.  Eighty out of 249 teens tested had a dangerous build up of cholesterol on their artery walls, and between 1989 to 1999, the obesity rate among Americans aged 18-29 more than doubled from five percent to twelve percent.

Another major factor is genetics.  A history of family heart problems can affect even the youngest of children.

The good news is that sudden cardiac death is preventable.  When it comes to clogged arteries and obesity, basic eating and exercise improvements  can reduce the risk.  As for those who inherit family heart problems, electrocardiogram screenings can detect any irregularities in the heart.

This is even better news for families in Katy.  On August 28th from 9am to 2pm, Memorial Hermann Katy will be screening adolescents and young adults for any underlying abnormalities. Test results will be reviewed and discussed with parents on-site by a board-certified specialist.

The cost of the screening is $150, and the hospital is located at 23900 Katy Freeway at Grand Parkway.  For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 713-222-CARE.

At Dagley Insurance, you and your family’s health is important to us.  That’s why we customize health insurance policies that fit your life and budget.  To learn more, visit www.dagleyins.com or the Dagley Insurance Facebook Page.

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