Chocolate is one of life's greatest delights, however diet culture has caused many people to avoid it, fear it, or feel guilty after eating it. However, is there another way to view chocolate? Could it even provide us with some health benefits?
HEALTH BENEFITS
Chocolate Contains Antioxidants
Cocoa solids, which are used to make chocolate, have been found to be abundant in antioxidants. These antioxidants have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect, as well as lower blood pressure and even help prevent cancer.
Chocolate Boosts Mood
Chocolate has been shown to boost mood. Chocolate is a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid precursor to serotonin, the feel-good neurotransmitter. Chocolate also increases the production of endorphins which help us feel happy.
Chocolate Is A Stress-Buster
Chocolate contains magnesium, an essential mineral which helps to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
Chocolate Boosts Energy Levels
Theobromine is a compound found in chocolate which has similar effects to caffeine for boosting energy. Chocolate can therefore help you feel more alert.
Despite chocolate's many health benefits, it is high in saturated fat and sugar, so cannot be considered a superfood alongside vegetables, fruit, dairy, wholegrains and meat/alternatives. So, it should be eaten in moderation.
A BETTER WAY TO VIEW CHOCOLATE
1. Remove the food labels. Chocolate is not good or bad, and you are not good or bad for eating it. It is simply food.
2. Give yourself permission to eat all foods, anytime - this includes chocolate. When you remove restrictions or rules from eating, you will naturally find yourself eating in a way that serves you. You will be less likely to overeat, and have greater satisfaction from food.
3. Ask yourself "What is my body telling me it would like to have?" or "What do I value more of in this moment?". These questions can help you to bring some awareness to your food decisions, helping you to feel content with whatever food you decide to eat.
4. As with all foods, moderation (rather than avoidance/exclusion) is key, and when you do eat some chocolate, Enjoy It!
For more information, you may like to read the following articles:
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