Eat afternoon chocolate to awaken energy and spirit
According to Dr. Sohaib Imtiaz, a preventive medicine expert at the Cambridge Nutrition Center (UK), dark chocolate contains caffeine and polyphenols, two active ingredients that help reduce stress and improve the spirit. A piece of dark chocolate can help you stay alert, relax and increase concentration without increasing blood sugar too much, he said.
Recent studies show that polyphenols in cocoa help nourish beneficial bacteria in the intestines, thereby promoting the production of serotonin, the body's natural happy hormone. Therefore, eating a little dark chocolate in the afternoon can help keep your spirit excited, reduce fatigue and limit cravings for sweets.
Morning, the golden time for weight and a healthy heart
Scientists at Tel Aviv University (Israel) found that people who ate dark chocolate in the morning gained less weight than those who ate it in the evening. Chocolate has the ability to stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce cravings and stimulate energy burning.
Flavonol, a compound characteristic of dark chocolate, also helps dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Dr. Imtiaz emphasizes: "If you use dark chocolate at the beginning of the day, the body will absorb antioxidants better, while also metabolizing energy more effectively".
However, experts recommend eating only 25 - 30g of dark chocolate per day, equivalent to two small pieces, and prioritizing 70% or more cocoa. Pregnant women, young children and people with cardiovascular disease should consult a doctor before using them regularly.
