Successful Weight Loss

The Link Between Chocolate And Digestion

By Catalina Nielsen


Many people love chocolates but they think that they are fattening and harmful to their health. This is not always true. Recent research has revealed that there are chocolates that are actually beneficial to health. The difference comes in the ingredients used and the processes followed. When it comes to chocolate and digestion, various factors need to be considered.

Darker chocolate with the most concentrated cocoa has the most health benefits. Cocoa beans are grown in countries like Ghana with an equatorial climate, meaning regular rainfall and humid conditions. In order for ingredients to be certified as organic they have to comply with various regulations such as no use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Manufacturers are increasingly opting for use of organic ingredients for their health benefits.

Cocoa beans contain polyphenols with antioxidant properties. These antioxidant flavonoids reduce the risk of blood clotting and this helps prevent heart attacks and strokes. Cocoa can increase the serotonin level in the brain. This is probably why people suffering from depression or PMS often reach for chocolates.

Cocoa beans contain many vitamins and minerals that help boost energy levels and keep the immune system functioning at its best. For example, they are an important source of magnesium. Magnesium has many benefits such as helping to maintain a healthy heartbeat as well as contributing to energy production and stabilizing the functioning of other minerals like zinc, iron and potassium.

There are cases in which chocolates are not good for the digestive system. Those containing milk are not good for people who are lactose intolerant. The complex sugar called lactose that is found in milk has to be broken down by a digestive enzyme called lactase. In some people, this does not happen resulting in undigested lactose which in turn causes problems like bloating, cramps and diarrhea. These individuals should buy products containing substitutes for dairy such as coconut milk.

Sugar is another added ingredient that can cause problems. There are manufacturers who use ingredients like unrefined cane sugar while others do not add sugar at all. However, the taste may then be too bitter for many people. Ingredients like organic vanilla, fruits and nuts may also be included to help give flavor and enhance taste. People with food allergies have to be careful that the products they buy do not contain nuts, soy and other ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.

Some people suffer from digestive diseases or irritable bowel syndrome and they find that eating chocolates can affect them adversely. However, for all those people who do not have digestive problems, eating chocolates can be of benefit to the digestive system. Chocolates contains a sufficient amount of fiber to help with peristaltic movement and stimulate the production of digestive enzymes.

When considering chocolate and digestion, it becomes evident that much depends on the health of the person concerned as well as the type of product that is consumed. There are many healthy options available, particularly at online stores. These products are made with the healthiest ingredients possible.




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