THEChocolate is the food that many, par excellence, associate with happiness. However, it is often thought that it should be eliminated in order to have a healthy lifestyle and diet. In reverse, the dark one has a long list of benefits for our body. On the occasion of the World Chocolate Day which occurs on 7 July, let’s find out with the expert which one to choose and how much to eat.
It’s good for the mood
«Everyone knows that chocolate is good for the mood. This is because it contributes to the secretion of serotonin, the feel-good hormone. Not only that: inside we also find anandamide and theobromine, which can have a euphoric effect. When used correctly, choosing the right quality and quantitycan perform the function of natural antidepressant. It is particularly useful in menopause to counteract mood swings. I recommend it in the evening, perhaps combined with milk against osteoporosis. Also in the evening, it is very useful to improve sleepeven in pre menopause and, in all age groups, is a moment of pampering and relaxation that accompanies towards rest », explains the Doctor Elisabetta Macorsininutritionist biologist from Humanitas Medical Care – Humanitas Mater Domini Hospital.
Helps the bacterial flora
«Chocolate is one of the factors that influence the composition of bacterial flora. From the fermentation of the cocoa bean numerous aromas and chemical compounds are obtained, thanks to the action of different microorganisms: lactic and bifidobacteria. These are considered to be the major compounds ad antifungal and hypocholesterolemic activity. They are also activators of the synthesis pathway of short-chain fatty acids and of mannitol, an important compound ad prebiotic activity how nourishment for the intestinal microbiotaContinues the expert.
Strengthens the immune system
«The cocoa contained in dark chocolate is capable of positively modulate the immune systemthanks to his anti-inflammatory effect. It is now established that cocoa, if included in limited doses in the diet, positively affects chronic inflammationallowing a reduced incidence of diseases such as, for example, inflammation of the endothelium, atherosclerosis, degenerative diseases », underlines Dr. Macorsini.
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It’s good for the heart
«Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and theobrominewhich can help protect the vessels, and therefore have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Quantitatively, this protective effect is demonstrated if they are taken between 20 and 50 grams of dark chocolate per day. Taking small doses of dark chocolate, then, allows you to reduce blood pressureand to reduce the oxidative damage of those who have the high cholesterolthanks to the flavonoids it contains », emphasizes the expert.
Pay attention to the type and doses
«The basic ingredient for any chocolate is the same: the cocoa bean. This is then worked until a paste is obtained. From this paste, it is then added cocoa, sugar, milk, fruit, dried fruit such as almonds, hazelnuts and so on. The dark chocolate, at least 70%, it is certainly the best. Secondly, dark chocolate is good for you, yes, but must be measured: let’s say that a correct quantity should be around 30-40 grams per daybut the quantity it depends on fitness and health in general of the single individual “, concludes Dr. Macorsini.
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