The researchers acknowledge that the health benefits of chocolate are likely to be gained from the flavonoids that it contains. Flavonoids are compounds that are synthesised by plants and they are therefore prevalent in fruits, vegetables and legumes. Research has shown that red wine and tea are also high in flavonoids but, like chocolate, these substances can be harmful to health and so they should be limited in the diet.

Common food sources of flavonoids include red, blue and purple berries, red and purple grapes, apples, citrus fruits, onions, broccoli, apples, parsley, thyme, celery, hot peppers, soybeans and legumes. Research has shown that flavonoids may act as antioxidants. They may also reduce inflammation, cut cancer risks and decrease neurodegeneration in addition to cutting cardiovascular disease.

No adverse effects have been associated with high dietary intakes of flavonoids from plant-based foods, wheres side-effects have been observed from drinking tea, red wine and chocolate due to the caffeine, alcohol, saturated fat and sugar in these products. This research demonstrates that benefits are only seen with small intakes of chocolate – a small bar once or twice a week. Intakes above this are likely to reduce health due to the fat and sugar content of chocolate. A small bar each week may be a great way to gain flavonoids whilst having a treat, but far greater health benefits can be gained from eating a diet rich in a variety of fruit, vegetables and legumes.

For more information about flavonoid rich diets, why not call Emma at Smart Nutrition or make an appointment today?

There are many reasons why chocolate seems so good

Chocolate’s major active ingredient is cocoa, a significant source of the stimulant theobromine so will help to give you a boost. Chocolate also contains the mood-enhancing stimulant phenethylamine – this is thought to be the same neurotransmitte that gives you a runners high and makes you feels so great when you fall in love.  Both theobromine and phenethylamine  stimulate dopamine production – which is the ‘feel good’ neurotransmitter.

chocolate is also high in sugar and caffeine both of which will give you a quick energy boost – great you may think, however this will always result in an energy crash as your blood sugar levels attempt to right themselves and this crash will lead to cravings meaning you just can’t say no to another bar.

Cocoa beans that make chocolate are grown in countries where pesticides use is unregualted meaning that chocolate is full of pesticide residue.

There is some good news however chocolate is high in antioxidants – this only applies to the very dark kind, with a minimum of 70% cocoa solids, not cheap bars full of fat and sugar.

So if you really can’t resist a bit of chocolate keep to the dark stuff and opt for organic and keep it as a treat – I actually have what I call chocolate Sundays – I leave it alone in the week but have a weekly chocolate treat on Sundays.