Surprising Mental Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
When you are feeling down, “Eat chocolate.” A bit of chocolate is believed to bring happiness and sweetness into our lives.
Chocolate, a delight enjoyed for centuries, was once a luxury reserved for the nobility. Today, it is a treat that everyone can indulge in, from roadside stalls to upscale restaurants. This accessibility of chocolate, in all its forms, brings joy to our lives.
Chocolate, incredibly dark chocolate, has many benefits, including mental health. What are they?
1. Improves mood and reduces stress
Consuming dark chocolate has been scientifically linked to improved mood and reduced stress. The polyphenol compounds found in dark chocolate likely contribute to this association with happiness and joy.
Polyphenols are antioxidants that can lower cortisol, the stress hormone. A study published in January 2022 found that participants who consumed 85% of dark chocolate daily had better moods than those who didn’t. They felt more relaxed and happy.
This condition happens because chocolate stimulates the brain to release endorphins and dopamine, natural substances that make us happy.
Dark chocolate contains fiber, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. A 2019 study by researchers at University College London suggested that dark chocolate may improve mood and help prevent symptoms of depression, although further research is needed to confirm this.
So when we're sad or stressed, a little chocolate can be a delicious pick-me-up.
2. Boosts brain power
Believe it or not, chocolate can also help your brain function better. Cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate, contains flavanols and antioxidants that can improve brain function and fight oxidative stress in brain cells, which can help delay or prevent cognitive decline.
The flavonoids and antioxidants in chocolate also help us think more clearly and concentrate better. The caffeine in chocolate also makes us more alert and focused.
3. Feeling calmer
When we eat chocolate, the brain also produces a chemical called serotonin. This chemical helps us feel better and happier, so chocolate can help us feel better when we feel sad or anxious.
Chocolate also contains tryptophan. When we eat chocolate, the body uses tryptophan to produce more serotonin, which makes us feel more relaxed and satisfied. So, when we feel sad, a little chocolate might lift our spirits.
4. Reduces anxiety
Dark chocolate can positively impact anxiety levels. Its flavonoid content can improve blood flow to the brain, enhance brain function, and improve the body's response to stress.
Consuming it in moderation can boost mood, mental clarity, and resilience to stress.
Additionally, dark chocolate increases the release of serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine, neurotransmitters that can naturally help relieve anxiety. Consuming small amounts of dark chocolate can assist in managing stress and anxiety.
Dark chocolate vs. milk chocolate
Dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content than milk chocolate, ranging from 50% to 90%. Meanwhile, milk chocolate contains more milk and added sugar, which dilutes the cocoa. Milk chocolate has 10% to 50% cocoa.
Generally, dark chocolate contains about 30% sucrose to reduce the bitter taste, while milk chocolate contains about 50% to 60%.
While still delicious, milk chocolate has fewer mental health benefits than dark chocolate because it contains less cocoa. It also has more calories and fat, which can have more negative health effects if consumed excessively.
However, consuming too much dark chocolate might raise calories and fat. Choose dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70% because it has less sugar, which can reduce these effects.
Most studies suggest that consuming small amounts of dark chocolate, usually around 1-2 ounces (30-60 grams) per day, can provide health benefits without causing excessive calorie intake. This moderation is critical to enjoying the benefits of dark chocolate responsibly.
Some people may experience allergic reactions to dark chocolate components, such as cocoa, caffeine, or additives. Natural stimulants in dark chocolate, such as caffeine and theobromine, can disrupt sleep patterns if consumed in large amounts or too close to bedtime.
Therefore, avoid consuming dark chocolate close to bedtime.
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While not a magic bullet for mental health issues, chocolate can have a positive impact on mood and happiness. It can boost morale, reduce stress, boost brain function, and increase natural feel-good chemicals.
Good mental health is essential and closely linked to a better overall quality of life. If you are struggling with your mental health, visit GWS Medika Clinic, a health clinic in Jakarta that offers a range of mental health services to support your well-being.
So, let’s enjoy a piece of chocolate. Savor the sweetness and the happiness it provides.
