We have been constantly hearing about all possible negative effects associated with eating chocolates. Let’s take a look at the positive side too, so that the next time your children decide to ask chocolate for a treat, you may think twice before bluntly refusing them.
Chocolate cannot be blamed for cavity formation:
Cavities are usually formed when bacteria in the mouth metabolize starches and sugars from any food containing Fermentable Carbohydrates (FC) to produce acids. Although FCs are present in chocolate, the cocoa butter in the chocolate, coats the teeth, making it less prone from tooth decay. Thus there would be too little time left for bacteria to attack teeth and cause cavities.
Chocolate has lesser caffeine content than a cup of coffee:
Although the stimulation on eating chocolate is equivalent to that of a cup of coffee, the amount of caffeine in a piece of chocolate is far less than a cup of coffee. A milk chocolate has only 6mg of caffeine, for instance, while a cup of coffee has 65-135mg of caffeine.
Chocolate is not addictive
Although many believe that chocolate could be addictive, there is no scientific evidence to prove so. There is no particular ingredient or anything for that matter in chocolates that could lead to cravings for chocolate.
Sugar-free chocolates ideal for diabetics
Unlike what is other-wise believed, sugar-free chocolates are not meant for people watching their diet. On the contrary, they are meant for diabetics, who need to keep their weight under check.
Chocolates are not the cause for pimples:
Chocolates are packed with anti-oxidants that help in gaining better-looking skin. However, it is the milk often mixed in few chocolates that could lead to acne.
Chocolates are nutritious too:
Unlike what is otherwise believed, chocolates are a good source of iron, magnesium, copper and zinc. It also contains polyphenols that have been often associated to reduce risk of coronary diseases.
Chocolates also helps in combating mood swings. Omega 3 fatty acids present in chocolates is the reason behind this activity. Women mostly suffer from PMS which leads to mood swings, depression. Before the onset of menstruation the hormones progesterone and estrogen are at peak levels which often lead to chemical imbalances in the brain. These chemical imbalances leads to mood swings, depression etc. Studies have shown that chocolates containing Omega 3 fatty acids helps in improving mood swings as Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may influence mood, personality and behaviour. Chemicals like cytokines present in brain causes the feeling of depression. These Omega 3 fatty acids block the action of these cytokines and helps in reducing in behaviour disorders.
That’s interesting about the tooth decay. I was not aware of that.