The Link Between Chocolate And Digestion

By Catalina Nielsen


Most people love the taste of chocolates. The good news is that current research reveals that they can actually be good for you. Of course, this is not true of all products and it depends greatly on the ingredients used. Knowing about chocolate and digestion is important in choosing products that are of benefit to your health.

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 many compounds important for health. Antioxidants found in cocoa are helpful in the fight against cardiovascular diseases because they neutralize the effects of free radicals that destroy cells and tissues. Blood pressure is lowered, blood flow improved, bad cholesterol lowered and plaque build-up on artery walls reduced. They also contain high levels of feel good chemicals like serotonin which is probably why people tend to reach for them when they are feeling low.

Cocoa beans are rich in many essential vitamins and minerals. They contain vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and E. The minerals they contain include calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper and zinc. All of these are vital to proper functioning of all the bodily systems.

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.

Chocolates contain milk and this could cause digestive problems for those who are lactose intolerant. These people are usually deficient in an enzyme called lactase which is needed to break down the complex sugar found in the milk, enabling it to be digested. If this lactose is not broken down it can cause problems like bloating and abdominal pain. There are dairy-free products available for such individuals, containing substitutes such as coconut milk.

Another group of individuals who have to take extreme care with what they eat are those who suffer from digestive conditions. These conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease can be aggravated by eating chocolates. Someone who is sensitive to caffeine also needs to be aware that a certain amount of caffeine is found in these beans. Those with food allergies are another group that need to be wary of ingredients like nuts that may be contained in these products.

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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