Chocolate is one of the most loved foods, but also the most discussed, as regards its possible more or less beneficial properties for our health and for our body.
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Chocolate is one of the most loved foods, but also the most discussed, as regards its more or less beneficial properties for our health and for our body. Dark chocolate represents the variety of this food with higher cocoa content. Its main ingredient is associated with the appellation of “Theobroma”, of Greek derivation, which carries with it the meaning of "Food of the gods". Such a high-sounding name can only be associated with positive characteristics, often challenged by more or less widespread and consolidated beliefs and myths. So let's try to shed some light on some statements to be debunked or to be considered with caution.
1) Chocolate contains high levels of caffeine
Contrary to popular belief, the levels of caffeine contained in chocolate would not be comparable to those present in a cup of espresso, cappuccino or American coffee. Dark chocolate may contain a higher amount of caffeine than milk chocolate, due to the percentage of cocoa. Those who are particularly sensitive to caffeine will be able to adjust accordingly. Remember that even decaffeinated coffee can contain traces of caffeine. You can consult this table in this regard, which lists the content in various drinks and foods.
2) The sugar contained in chocolate causes hyperactivity
What are the causes ofhyperactivity in children? Some scholars hypothesize that it may be linked to the eating habits of children and in particular to the consumption of sugary drinks and sweets in excess. However, others, through studies and research, have denied this correlation. If in doubt, it is better to prefer extra dark chocolate, with a high percentage of cocoa and minimal refined sugar content.
3) Chocolate causes LDL cholesterol to rise
According to some studies, chocolate does not contribute to raising blood cholesterol due to the particular type of fats it contains. In some people it may even act by helping to lower blood cholesterol levels. However, the best chocolate remains the extra-dark variety, with a high content of cocoa and polyphenols.
4) Chocolate causes tooth decay
To safeguard our teeth from plaque and cavities it is good limit the consumption of sugar refined and confectionery, but as far as chocolate is concerned, exceptions could be allowed, at least sometimes. According to a study conducted at the University of Osaka, in Japan, some parts of cocoa beans contain substances capable of counteracting the proliferation of bacteria which develop in the oral cavity and which are considered to be the cause of the most common dental problems.
5) Chocolate makes you fat
This is not always true, as weight gain depends on one's eating habits. A large study found that consuming chocolate once a week as part of a proper diet cannot cause any weight gain. A piece of chocolate as a weekly prize, perhaps for having overcome laziness and having carried out physical activity, cannot harm the figure and can also benefit the good mood.
6) Eating chocolate increases stress
That may not be the case. Indeed, according to some studies, the consumption of chocolate could contribute to the reduction of individual stress levels. In some people, chocolate has been shown to lower the production levels of the hormones that cause stress when consumed once a day for two weeks.
7) Chocolate is devoid of beneficial nutrients
It seems that this is not the case. Extra-dark chocolate, with a high cocoa content, would be particularly rich in polyphenols, with an antioxidant capacity equal to a glass of red wine or two cups of green tea. It also contains mineral salts and vegetable fibers.
8) Chocolate must contain at least 70% cocoa to be healthy
What must be the ideal cocoa content of the chosen dark chocolate for it to be beneficial? Usually 70% cocoa is recommended as a minimum quantity in percentage, but, according to some experiments carried out by researchers, also chocolate that contains cocoa al 50% or 60% it can have positive effects on health, particularly on lowering blood pressure.
9) Chocolate is aphrodisiac
The Azteki were probably the first population to believe that cocoa possessed an aphrodisiac power, but it seems that this effect on the body has not yet been actually scientifically proven. This does not mean that cocoa and chocolate can improve mood and reduce stress, so much so that we are more inclined to love encounters.
10) Chocolate causes acne
Are Chocolate and Acne Related? According to experts in the pages of the Journal of the American Medical Association, in most patients nutrition would play no role in acne treatment and even the intake of high quantities of chocolate would not be linked to its worsening.
Marta Albè
