2024-04-17 10:16:45
Good news for those with a sweet tooth! There is considerable evidence that dark chocolate can be beneficial for both heart and mental health. It turns out that cocoa beans are a medical miracle. They contain various active compounds that can have a pharmacological effect on the body, similar to drugs.
Compounds that have neurological effects on the brain must cross the blood-brain barrier, a protective shield that prevents harmful substances such as toxins and bacteria from entering the sensitive nervous tissue.
One such compound is theobromine, which is also found in tea and is responsible for the bitter taste. Of course, tea and chocolate also contain caffeine. These chemicals cause a person to develop an addiction to chocolate. The mentioned compounds are able to cross the blood-brain barrier and can affect the nervous system. Therefore, they are called psychoactive chemicals.
What effect can chocolate have on mood? A new review of research has found that chocolate improves mood, reduces anxiety and provides energy.
True, the feeling of guilt associated with eating chocolate has also been observed. And who hasn’t bitten himself?
Health benefits of cocoa
For centuries, chocolate has been used as a cure for many ailments, such as anemia, tuberculosis, gout, and even sexual dysfunction.
True, these claims are not confirmed by science. However, cocoa consumption has been shown to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. First, it can prevent endothelial dysfunction, the process by which the arteries harden and become covered with fatty plaques, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Eating dark chocolate may also reduce blood pressure and the risk of blood clots.
Some studies suggest that dark chocolate may be helpful in regulating high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.
Other studies have looked at insulin resistance, a phenomenon linked to type 2 diabetes and weight gain. Polyphenols – chemical compounds found in plants, including cocoa beans – are said to help with better blood sugar control.
Who can’t eat chocolate?
Although chocolate is good for some, it is poison for others.
Caffeine and theobromine have been shown to be highly toxic to pets. Dogs with voracious appetites are particularly vulnerable.
Dark chocolate can trigger symptoms of agitation, stiff muscles and even seizures. In some cases, if ingested in large enough amounts, it can cause coma and abnormal, even fatal, heart rhythms.
Some compounds in chocolate have also been found to have negative effects on humans. Chocolate is a source of oxalate, which, along with calcium, is one of the main components of kidney stones.
Some clinical groups advise against high-oxalate foods such as spinach and rhubarb, as well as chocolate, for those who suffer from recurrent kidney stones.
What are the conclusions? Science shows that the higher the cocoa content and the fewer additives, the better the chocolate. The potentially harmful effects of chocolate have more to do with the fat and sugar, which can offset any potential benefits.
A daily dose of 20g-30g of plain or dark chocolate containing at least 70% cocoa solids can be beneficial for health. White chocolate is obviously bad.
But whatever chocolate you choose, don’t share it with your dog.
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2024-04-17 10:16:45