He dark chocolate It is a product made mainly from cocoa and sugars, meeting strict content and quality requirements. According to current legislation, for a chocolate to be classified as dark, it must contain at least one 35% of total dry matter of cocoa. Of this proportion, a 18% It should be cocoa butter and a 14% dry and defatted matter of cocoa.
The consumption of functional foods, such as dark chocolate, has been the subject of numerous scientific studies that reveal its various benefits for general health. Namely, some are:
- Promotes cardiovascular health: The daily consumption of one ounce (28 grams) of chocolate Black could lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a recent study published in The European Heart Journal. The research highlights the importance of flavanols present in cocoa as the compounds responsible for these cardiac benefits. Researchers at the German Institute of Human Nutrition Nuthetal determined that a daily intake of between six and eight grams of dark chocolate is sufficient to obtain these positive effects.
- Improves brain function: He bitter chocolate can have a positive impact on brain function, according to recent research. The flavanols, antioxidant compounds present in this type of chocolate, seem to improve reaction time, visual-spatial awareness and strengthen memory. These beneficial effects may be due to the fact that flavonols increase blood flow to the brain.
- Control cholesterol: A recent study has created a stir in the field of nutrition and cardiovascular health. Published in The Journal of Nutritionresearch suggests that the chocolate consumption could play a beneficial role in reducing levels of LDL cholesterol, commonly known as “bad cholesterol.” The researchers analyzed the effect of chocolate bars containing plant sterols and cocoa flavonoids in the cholesterol levels. This thorough analysis revealed that a regular intake of these bars, combined with a low fat dietcould not only lower LDL cholesterol, but also improve blood pressure.
- Reduces stress: People who consume bitter chocolate report lower levels of stress. This phenomenon has been corroborated by research that highlights how eating this type of chocolate can reduce blood sugar levels. cortisol, the hormone related to stress. The Dark chocolate intake can have a positive effect on cardiovascular health. Researchers suggest that the decrease in cortisol after consuming dark chocolate may be linked to its cardiovascular benefits. Stress is known as a risk factor for heart disease, and reducing it could lead to a lower incidence of heart conditions.
- Increases sports performance: A recent study published in The Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition has revealed that the dark chocolate consumption could have positive effects on athletic performance. The research, carried out in United Kingdom with a group of cyclists, suggests that this type of chocolate improves oxygen availability during physical exercise. Research from the study indicated that cyclists, after consuming dark chocolate, used a lower amount of oxygen while pedaling at a moderate pace. This means their aerobic capacity improved, allowing them to perform the same amount of exercise with less respiratory effort.
He dark chocolate could have a significant impact on brain health, according to various research. A study carried out by the Harvard Medical School revealed that the daily consumption of two cups of hot chocolate can improve cognitive functions in older adults. This discovery raises an interesting possibility in the fight against age-related cognitive decline.
In particular, chocolate increases Blood flow in the brain. This improvement in cerebral circulation is crucial as it could help reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as dementia and the Alzheimer’saccording to a study published in Nutritional Neuroscience.
Specifically, the researchers found that increasing cerebral blood flow plays an important role in maintaining cognitive functions and could be a valuable resource in preventing these ailments.
The professor of the Department of Public Health of the Faculty of Medicine of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), María del Carmen Iñarritu Pérez, has suggested the daily consumption of a bar of 10 gram dark or semi-sweet chocolate. The recommendation is based on multiple health benefits attributed to this food, as long as the chocolate contains between 70 and 80 percent cocoa.
He dark chocolate It is known for its beneficial health properties, but your consumption It may have contraindications for certain people. According to experts, people allergic to cocoa or any of its components should refrain from consuming it to avoid adverse reactions. Additionally, individuals who suffer from heartburn may experience worsening symptoms when eating this type of chocolate.
An important aspect to consider is that the dark chocolate contains caffeine, which can cause insomnia or nervousness if consumed in excess. This effect is particularly notable in sensitive people, who may experience disturbances in their sleep cycle.
