Chocolate lovers rejoice! An article in The Telegraph (U.K.) reported a scientific finding that eating dark chocolate reduces the risk of depression fourfold.
University College London (UCL) surveyed 13,000 people to find that 7.6% of them reported symptoms of depression – but that number fell to just 1.5% of those who consumed chocolate. They also found that people who ate the most chocolate (3.6 – 16 oz.) were 57% less likely to report depressive symptoms.
The report focused on eating dark chocolate — not milk, or white chocolate. This was the first study to examine the link between the type of chocolate consumed and depression.
Chocolate has been in the news for other benefits as well. A quick ‘Google’ search revealed these:
- Dark chocolates contain polyphenol, flavonol, and other types of antioxidants. In fact, cocoa, which is the main ingredient of dark chocolate, contains more flavanol than other superfruits such as cranberry, blueberry, pomegranate, and acai. The antioxidants capacity of dark chocolate is higher than all of these fruits aside from pomegranate.
- Antioxidants in dark chocolates may help neutralize free radicals before they can do damage to the body. It may help protect the skin from sun damage.
- Benefits of cocoa for the heart are backed by history and research. Flavanols, in dark chocolate, are reported to improve heart health by maintaining the blood flow to the brain and heart. They may also reduce the stickiness of blood platelets to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots.
- Dark chocolate contains polyphenols which can increase the levels of HDL (also known as the “good cholesterol”), and it may help to reduce the levels of LDL or the “bad cholesterol”.
- Dark chocolate also contains a compound known as theobromine, which impacts the nervous system similar to the way caffeine does. It also interacts with neurotransmitters to increase levels of serotonin and produces endorphins, which make you feel good.
- Research suggests that Dark chocolate is good brain food. Flavanol is often linked to enhanced blood flow to the brain – helping to boost a person’s memory and ability to focus.
- The theophylline, theobromine, and caffeine content of dark chocolate can work together to open constricted bronchial passages and stop broncho-spasms. This may help prevent asthma attacks or serve to suppress coughs.
- Dark chocolate may lower blood pressure especially in people with diabetes with hypertension, and (with a low-sugar variety) can decrease fasting blood sugar levels too.
Cautions: You knew there had to be a catch, right? As with all things concerning our bodies, if you have dietary or medical concerns be sure to check with your health practitioner before enjoying too much of a good thing.
Unlike the ‘Fake News’ we hear so much about, the benefits listed here are real. Notice that the UCL study findings are accurate – but they don’t certify cause–and–effect. There are lingering questions. For example: Does dark chocolate protect against depression – or does depression reduce the consumption of dark chocolate? Which is most likely? I know which one has my vote. And there are all of those other benefits to consider too.
Scripture advises: “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21
There are many other benefits (for easing depression) to be found in our diets. Hmmm … It seems more research is in order. Chocolate anyone?
Blessings, Love and Laughter,
Margaret
PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS:
- Do you have a favorite kitchen tip or recipe for losing the blues?
Chocolate has been in the news for other benefits as well. A quick ‘Google’ search revealed these:
- A Harvard study says that eating six bars of dark chocolate a week could reduce the risk of a fatal heart condition.
- Dark chocolates contain polyphenol, flavonol, and other types of antioxidants. In fact, cocoa, which is the main ingredient of dark chocolate, contains more flavanol than other superfruits such as cranberry, blueberry, pomegranate, and acai. The antioxidants capacity of dark chocolate is higher than all of these fruits aside from pomegranate.
- Antioxidants in dark chocolates may help neutralize free radicals before they can do damage to the body. It may help protect the skin from sun damage.
- Benefits of cocoa for the heart are backed by history and research. Flavanols, in dark chocolate, are reported to improve heart health by maintaining the blood flow to the brain and heart. They may also reduce the stickiness of blood platelets to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots.
- Dark chocolate contains polyphenols which can increase the levels of HDL (also known as the “good cholesterol”), and it can help reduce the levels of LDL or the “bad cholesterol”.
- Dark chocolate also contains a compound known as theobromine, which impacts the nervous system similar to the way caffeine does. It also interacts with your neurotransmitters to increase levels of serotonin and produces endorphins, which make you feel good.
- Research suggests that Dark chocolate is good brain food. Flavanol is often linked to enhanced blood flow to the brain – helping to boost a person’s memory and ability to focus.
- The theophylline, theobromine, and caffeine content of dark chocolate can work together to open constricted bronchial passages and stop broncho-spasms. This may help prevent asthma attacks or serve to suppress coughs.
- Dark chocolate may lower blood pressure especially in people with diabetes with hypertension, and (with a low-sugar variety) can decrease fasting blood sugar levels too.
Cautions: You knew there had to be a catch, right? As with all things concerning our bodies, if you have dietary or medical concerns be sure to check with your health practitioner before enjoying too much of a good thing.
Unlike the ‘Fake News’ we hear so much about … the benefits listed here are real. Notice that the U.C.L. study findings are accurate – but they don’t certify cause–and–effect. There are lingering questions. For example: Does dark chocolate protect against depression – or does depression reduce the consumption of dark chocolate? Either answer will fit the findings.
Scripture advises: “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21
Hmmm … seems like more research is in order. Chocolate anyone?
Blessings, Love and Laughter,
Margaret
PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS: