As we celebrate World Chocolate Day on July 7th, it’s an opportunity not just to enjoy a beloved treat but also to delve into the intriguing link between chocolate and our psychology. Beyond its delightful taste, chocolate has been studied extensively for its potential benefits on brain health and overall well-being.
Research has also shown that cocoa and cocoa products may offer cognitive benefits for both young adults and the elderly, improving cognitive function, blood pressure control, and metabolic profiles (Mastroiacovo et al., 2015). Moreover, consuming cocoa flavanols has been associated with improved cognitive function and the regulation of blood pressure in older adults, potentially offering neuroprotective effects against conditions like stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and neurogenesis (Nehlig, 2013).
Polyphenols found in dark chocolate have been suggested to influence central nervous system function and neurological processes (Montagna et al., 2019). Dark chocolate is also abundant in flavonoids, and has been linked to beneficial outcomes, such as alleviating depression. In contrast, milk chocolate, containing fewer flavonoids, might not yield similar advantages (Jackson et al., 2019).
Chocolate’s impact on brain health and mental well-being encompasses various mechanisms, including its influence on the gut-brain axis, modulation of neurological function, and hormone release. The gut-brain axis is particularly significant in this regard, as chocolate’s prebiotic fibres foster the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn, enhances mood and cognitive function. Additionally, the compounds found in cocoa such as flavanols and polyphenols, improves mood and cognition by engaging in processes such as the modulation of antioxidant enzymes, and anti-inflammation (Davison et al., 2019; Tuenter et al., 2018).
In conclusion, chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, has shown potential benefits for brain health and mental well-being. From mood enhancement to stress reduction and cognitive function support, chocolate offers a range of advantages for our psychological health. As we indulge in chocolate on World Chocolate Day, savour each bite mindfully, appreciating the positive impact it can have on both our minds and bodies.
To meet with a professional psychologist or counsellor, call The Other Clinic at 8809 0659 or email us hello@theotherclinic.sg.
References:
Davison, K., Lung, Y., Lin, S., Tong, H., Kobayashi, K., & Fuller‐Thomson, E. (2019). Depression in middle and older adulthood: the role of immigration, nutrition, and other determinants of health in the Canadian longitudinal study on aging. BMC Psychiatry, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-019-2309-y
Jackson, S., Smith, L., Firth, J., Grabovac, I., Soysal, P., Koyanagi, A., … & Yang, L. (2019). Is there a relationship between chocolate consumption and symptoms of depression? a cross‐sectional survey of 13,626 us adults. Depression and Anxiety, 36(10), 987-995. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.22950
Mastroiacovo, D., Kwik-Uribe, C., Grassi, D., Necozione, S., Raffaele, A., Pistacchio, L., … & Desideri, G. (2015). Cocoa flavanol consumption improves cognitive function, blood pressure control, and metabolic profile in elderly subjects: the cocoa, cognition, and aging (cocoa) study—a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 101(3), 538-548. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.114.092189
Montagna, M., Diella, G., Triggiano, F., Caponio, G., Giglio, O., Caggiano, G., … & Portincasa, P. (2019). Chocolate, “food of the gods”: history, science, and human health. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(24), 4960. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16244960
Nehlig, A. (2013). The neuroprotective effects of cocoa flavanol and its influence on cognitive performance. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 75(3), 716-727. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04378.x
Tuenter, E., Foubert, K., & Pieters, L. (2018). Mood components in cocoa and chocolate: the mood pyramid. Planta Medica, 84(12/13), 839-844. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-0588-5534