Dark Chocolate: A Boost for Brain Health
Dark chocolate is not only a delicious treat, but it also has numerous health benefits. One of the lesser-known benefits of dark chocolate is its positive impact on the brain.
What Makes Dark Chocolate Good for the Brain?
The cocoa present in dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These flavonoids have been shown to enhance cognitive function and protect the brain from age-related cognitive decline.
Additionally, dark chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which are stimulants that can improve mental alertness and concentration.
Dark Chocolate and Memory
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming a high-cocoa flavanol drink for 8 weeks improved participants’ cognitive function and increased blood flow to the brain. Another study published in the journal Appetite found that eating dark chocolate improved verbal fluency and the ability to remember abstract words.
Dark Chocolate and Mood
Dark chocolate has also been linked to improvements in mood. The flavonoids in dark chocolate have been shown to increase levels of endorphins, the natural “feel-good” chemicals produced by the brain. Dark chocolate also contains the amino acid tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood.
In fact, a small study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that eating 40 grams of dark chocolate per day for two weeks reduced stress levels and improved mood in individuals who reported high levels of stress.
Dark Chocolate and Neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to adapt and change in response to new experiences. Research has shown that consuming dark chocolate may promote neuroplasticity, which can lead to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of neurological disorders.
A study published in the journal Nature Neuroscience found that consuming epicatechin, a flavanol found in dark chocolate, improved spatial memory in mice. Another study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition found that consuming dark chocolate improved cognitive function in healthy adults.
How Much Dark Chocolate Should You Eat?
While dark chocolate can be a healthy addition to your diet, it is important to consume it in moderation. Most studies have found that consuming around 30 grams of dark chocolate per day (about one small square) is enough to reap the cognitive benefits.
However, it is important to note that dark chocolate is also high in calories and fat. If you are trying to maintain a healthy weight, it is important to balance the calories in dark chocolate with other healthy foods and exercise.
The Bottom Line
Dark chocolate is not only a delicious treat but can also benefit the brain in numerous ways. The flavonoids and stimulants present in dark chocolate can improve cognitive function, memory, mood, and neuroplasticity. However, it is important to consume dark chocolate in moderation and balance its calories with a healthy diet and exercise.
