Do you feel guilty every time you reach for some chocolate? The good news is that, according to scientific studies, consuming cocoa and certain types of chocolate is actually recommended. High-quality chocolate and cocoa aren’t just delicious: in addition to their unique flavor, they also have a beneficial effect on health thanks to the polyphenols they contain, including flavonoids.
These act as natural antioxidants in the body, meaning they protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. From this perspective, dark chocolates are the most beneficial. However, it is important not to consume them in place of a main meal or fruits/vegetables, but rather to enjoy 25–30 g of this delicious treat as a dessert after meals, no more than 2–3 times a week.
By raising levels of protective HDL cholesterol in the blood and lowering levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, chocolate reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The higher the cocoa content, the stronger this effect, but it’s best to choose products with at least 60% cocoa. Keep in mind that this treat is packed with calories, so overindulging can lead to weight gain, which in turn increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart problems.
The hormone serotonin activates the so-called reward center in the brain and sends the “happiness hormone” to the rest of the body. The same mechanism occurs when we exercise or are in love. With chocolate, of course, all this happens much more easily. The process is triggered by tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin.
Real cocoa powder is made from cocoa mass after the cocoa butter has been removed. It contains about thirty valuable organic compounds, including potassium and magnesium (which help regulate blood pressure), beta-carotene and vitamin E, as well as niacin and folic acid, all of which are essential for health.
Thanks to its easily absorbed carbohydrates, chocolate is a quick source of energy. After eating it, brain function improves significantly for 2–3 hours, which is why it’s highly recommended for studying.
A bar of dark chocolate contains about 60 mg of caffeine. This is enough to give your body a boost, but the effect isn’t so strong that you’ll feel tired again after a brief burst of energy. Caffeine increases heart rate and raises body temperature.