How chocolate affects the human brain. Why dark chocolate is good for the brain Recipe for a cocktail that stimulates brain activity

Chocolate, which is over three hundred years old, is a product that defies unambiguous characteristics. This sweet delicacy has an incomparable taste and properties that do not allow it to be called simply the joy of a sweet tooth.

The benefits of chocolate are multifaceted, but this statement applies to a certain type of chocolate. It is dark chocolate that can be called a tasty and healthy delicacy. It can influence various processes occurring in our body. Bitter chocolate for the brain is proven by several generations of students to activate its work during the sessions.

Dark chocolate improves brain function - myth or proven fact?

Mankind rarely takes any statement on faith. Everything must have its evidence. Bitter chocolate, despite its centuries-old age, is still subjected to numerous studies. And they, it must be said, still surprise scientists with their results.

Why is this happening?

Schoolchildren have tested over many years how dark chocolate improves brain function. And scientists have proven why this happens. Three components that affect brain activity:

• Lecithin is a neurotransmitter substance. It is responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses to the brain.
• Theobromine is a constituent of cocoa beans. It has antispasmodic properties - relieves spasms of cerebral vessels. Improves mood by causing the brain to produce more endorphins.
• Fast carbohydrates are simply necessary for the normal functioning of the brain. For a quick satiety, a rather small piece of dark chocolate, so moderate consumption of bitter sweetness will serve to stimulate the brain, and at the same time will not affect your harmony in any way.

Scientists have proven that the secret of the benefits of dark chocolate is directly proportional to the content of cocoa beans in its composition. According to research, cocoa beans are a source of energy that improves the cognitive (cognitive) properties of the brain.

British scientists have tested in practice the benefits of dark chocolate for the brain. As a result of the experiment, in humans, after drinking a chocolate drink, blood flow to the most important parts of the brain increased for two to three hours. And as a result of this - an improvement in reaction and an increase in intelligence.

Recipe for a cocktail that stimulates brain activity

Dark chocolate improves brain function due to the expansion of blood vessels and a better supply of blood and oxygen to them. Therefore, it is so effective for overwork and lack of sleep.

For maximum benefit, you should choose chocolate in which the percentage of cocoa content is as high as possible, and the presence of sugars and other side additives in its composition is minimized. Better yet, make your own nutritious chocolate smoothie, borrowed from the ancient Aztecs. Such a recipe will really make the blood run faster through the veins and quickly bring you to your senses.

• Tablespoon of quality cocoa.
• A small amount of coffee.
• Low fat milk.
• A pinch of cinnamon and red cayenne pepper.

This drink will not taste like the usual sweet hot chocolate, but it was in this form that the Aztecs used it in the morning and at lunch.

Of course, dark chocolate is not a panacea and will not solve serious problems. But sometimes the short-term effect of a piece of chocolate gives more results than long thoughtful reflections.

Many of us have firmly entrenched in our heads the belief that sweets will definitely not bring anything useful to our body. However, in fact, a significant amount of sugary foods will not only satisfy our desire to eat something tasty, but also bring great benefits to our body. Naturally, the beneficial qualities of such food appear only with moderate consumption. One of the highly useful sweets is chocolate, it has a positive effect on many organs and systems of our body, including the activity of the brain.

Experts, exploring the beneficial qualities of chocolate, came to the conclusion that it contains antioxidants. These substances effectively protect our brain cells from natural aging and from many diseases. In addition, these elements also improve overall well-being. Scientists have recorded that those people who from time to time enjoy high-quality chocolate live about a year longer. It may well be that this trend is due precisely to the presence of antioxidants in this sweetness.

In addition, studies have confirmed that chocolate is an excellent source of polyphenols. These are the same antioxidants as those rich in red wine, tea, various vegetables and fruits. At the same time, the activity of chocolate polyphenols is approximately two times higher than that of similar elements from red wine.

Only fifty grams of this product contains as many phenolic compounds as there are in one glass of high-quality red wine. A couple of tablespoons of cocoa, used to brew hot chocolate, is the source of one hundred and forty-five milligrams of phenols.

All this is good, but chocolate is different ... So what kind of chocolate is good for the brain?

The maximum amount of the above-mentioned substances is present in high-quality dark chocolate, white varieties of this product do not contain it in principle. If you drink sweetness with natural red wine, then the total activity of polyphenols will be several times greater than when these products are consumed separately.

Antioxidants that have been found in dark chocolate include catechins. It is the content of these elements that tea has long been known for. Thanks to such substances, chocolate is able to protect our body as a whole, and the vessels of the brain in particular, from quite dangerous lipid peroxidation, which distorts and destroys cell membranes, and poisons blood fats. Also, over time, experts have determined that those phenols that are present in chocolate effectively inhibit the activity of free radicals in human blood.

Chocolate as a source of psychotropic substances

Many people know from experience that eating a fairly small amount of chocolate can give them a noticeable mood boost. Specialists conducted a study that proved that a natural and high-quality product is able to raise even a very bad mood by an order of magnitude. This property is explained by the high content in this sweetness of sugars that activate serotonin, as well as fats that have a calming effect. In addition, chocolate is a source of a number of pharmacological compounds that are highly active and stimulate the activity of the central nervous system. Among them, a very important place is occupied by phenylethylamine, which is similar in its qualities to the well-known psychotropic amphetamine.

To all the features of chocolate already listed, it is worth mentioning one more of its features that have a direct effect on the brain. It consists in a calming effect, somewhat similar to marijuana. The components of this popular sweet have properties similar to anandamide, which binds to the same brain cell receptors as marijuana. Accordingly, elements from chocolate affect marijuana receptors, which causes a similar effect. This explains the fairly common addiction to chocolate.

Some more effects of chocolate on the brain

Chocolate is an excellent source of lecithin. This element is an excellent neurotransmitter that ensures the full transmission of nerve impulses to brain cells.

In addition, it contains theobromine, which has an antispasmodic effect. This element remarkably eliminates spasms in the vessels of the brain. In addition, this element helps to improve mood by stimulating the release of endorphins in the brain in a significant amount.

Chocolate is an excellent source of fast carbohydrates, which are especially important for the full functioning of the brain. To quickly saturate the body with these substances, it is worth eating just a small piece of this sweetness. Moderate consumption of chocolate will help stimulate the active activity of the brain, and will not affect the harmony of your figure.

Scientists came to the conclusion that the level of useful qualities of dark chocolate directly depends on the level of cocoa beans in it. These components of sweetness are the main source of energy, which stimulates the improvement of cognitive, and in simple terms, the cognitive qualities of the brain. Among other things, just a small piece of chocolate stimulates blood flow to the most important areas of the brain, which leads to improved reactions and increased intelligence.

Thus, high-quality dark chocolate can be of great benefit to our brain.

To keep your baby healthy and smart, feed him wisely! Include in his menu products that will help the brain to work as productively as possible. It is especially necessary to increase its activity after vacations, holidays and at the beginning of the school year, when the body from a comfortable vacation environment falls into a strict training framework. We offer you a list of products for the mind, so necessary for schoolchildren.

Oily fish and caviar

Children need animal protein, but it is better to get it not from meat, but from fatty fish, because such fish (salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines) are rich in Omega 3. This acid is extremely important for improving brain function and strengthening immunity.
Nutritionists believe that the most useful is wholemeal bread sandwich with a little butter and fish caviar.

Oatmeal

Oats are considered one of the most useful cereals: they stimulate blood circulation (including in the brain). Do not forget about B vitamins, which are abundant in oats, as in all cereals. This group of vitamins is needed for both adults and children, because it is considered a source of energy that all body cells need.

Walnuts

These nuts contain omega 3 and omega 6 unsaturated fatty acids. They help keep kids active and provide healthy plant-based protein. Walnuts also contain lecithin, which improves memory. Ideally, a student should be given at least 5 walnut kernels daily.

Blueberry

The composition of blueberries, rich in antioxidants and vitamins, makes them especially useful for improving brain function. This berry helps to think well, to absorb and remember the knowledge gained at any age. By the way, it also helps to strengthen the retina.

cocoa and chocolate

Cocoa beans contain magnesium, a trace element necessary for normal memory function. So freshly brewed hot cocoa for breakfast will provide the student with "long" energy for the whole day. Cocoa also helps to dilate blood vessels, improve blood circulation, stimulate brain activity and improve mood. If your child loves, then it will be useful for the student's mind bitter, in which the content of cocoa beans is more than 60%.

Green pea

Lack of thiamine (vitamin B1) is fraught with deterioration in attention, memory and mood. Therefore, be sure to add this product to the child’s diet, and it doesn’t matter in what form: fresh, frozen or canned - it retains the properties we need in any version.

Linseed oil

This product is also high in Omega 3, which we talked about above. A schoolchild under 14 years old needs 1 teaspoon of linseed oil per day, and over 14 - 1 tablespoon. It is better to use flaxseed oil in the morning on an empty stomach, but if the child does not take the product in its pure form, add this oil to salads, cereals or other dishes.

Apples

Apples are one of the richest fruits in vitamins and microelements, which help to strengthen the body and improve immunity. Phosphorus contained in apples helps to strengthen the nervous system and stimulates brain activity, and Apple juice is an excellent antioxidant.
It is very convenient to give apples to a student with him so that he can have a snack at a break. A child should eat at least 1 apple per day.

Carrot

In addition to a positive effect on vision, carrots are useful in that they facilitate learning by heart, as they actively stimulate the metabolism throughout the body, including the brain.
Therefore, if your child is supposed to memorize (cramming) large amounts of information, invite him to eat grated carrots with vegetable or, better, linseed oil before that.

Kiwi

Just 1 kiwifruit contains the daily value of vitamin C. It is a proven source of antioxidants that protect the brain from free radicals. It is these villains that impair memory and negatively affect the ability to make decisions.

Do not overfeed your child before school. Excessively satisfying food can lead to gastrointestinal problems and a natural decrease in brain activity, which causes drowsiness and indifference to intellectual pursuits.

Protein. A lack of protein in school-age children leads to a slowdown in thought processes, which makes it difficult for a child to absorb a large amount of material. Therefore, be sure to include in the diet of the student chicken breast, eggs, low-fat cottage cheese and legumes.
Carbohydrates. For schoolchildren, carbohydrates in the diet are important, with their shortage, a decrease in the overall tone of the child's body is observed. Just do not assume that in this case there should be a lot of sweets in baby food - “fast” carbohydrates: in addition to the fact that they are not useful in principle, they also provide energy for a short period, quickly absorbed. Add correct, "slow" carbohydrates to your child's daily menu, for example, wholemeal bread, mushrooms, whole wheat pasta.
Vitamins and minerals contained in vegetables, fruits and berries. The substances that are part of these products increase the intellectual abilities of the student. Be sure to include in your child's diet bananas, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, garlic.

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Dark chocolate is good for the brain, it improves mood, protects the brain from damage, improves memory and attention, relieves stress, and much more. Learn how to judge the quality of chocolate.

Chocolate is good for the brain

The world loves chocolate. Americans eat 1.5 billion kilograms annually.

But US consumption lags far behind leading chocolate-loving countries such as Switzerland, Germany and the UK.

We love chocolate not only because of its taste. We love it because it makes us feel better and happier.

You'll find dark chocolate at the top of any brain food list.

Let's take a look at 9 proven benefits of chocolate for brain and health, and why?

1. Eating dark chocolate can make you happy.

Dark chocolate increases the production of a “good” chemical called endorphin. Endorphins bind to opiate receptors in the brain leading to feelings of euphoria. They also reduce pain and the negative effects of stress.

Chocolate is good for the brain, it is the main dietary source of tryptophan, amino acids, serotonin, the neurotransmitter of happiness and positive mood.

Dark chocolate also contains phenylethylamine, a substance called “love medicine” because it has an effect similar to falling in love.

Theobromine, a substance found in chocolate, is associated with caffeine and creates a mild aphrodisiac effect.

2. Dark chocolate is good for the brain. improves blood flow to the brain.

The compounds in dark chocolate improve memory, attention span, reaction time, and problem-solving skills by increasing blood flow to the brain.

The flavonoids in chocolate improve blood flow to the brain in both old age and youth.

A Harvard Medical School study found that drinking two cups of hot chocolate increased blood flow to the brain for 2-3 hours. This increased blood flow improved memory speed test scores by 30%.

Increased blood flow to the brain may help short-term memory and prevent mental decline in older people.

3. Dark chocolate protects the brain from free radicals.

Your brain uses a lot of oxygen, about 20% of your body's total consumption. This makes it very susceptible to free radical damage.

Free radicals attack your cells in the same way that oxygen attacks metal, causing it to rust.

If you've ever seen a sliced ​​apple, it turns brown, free radicals at work. Wrinkles, age spots, and sun damage on your skin are visible signs of free radical damage.

Dark chocolate activates antioxidants, they protect brain cells by neutralizing free radicals and preventing premature aging of brain cells.

Cocoa powder contains more antioxidants than other "superfoods" such as acai, blueberries and pomegranates. In the test, cocoa powder came out ahead of green tea, but ended up behind coffee.

4. Dark chocolate is good for the brain, improves learning, memory and attention.

Cocoa flavonoids penetrate and accumulate in areas of the brain involved in learning and memory, especially the hippocampus. Chocolate is good for the brain because it contains flavonoids, which improve standardized cognitive tests.

Chocolate also contains caffeine, a well-known brain booster that improves memory, mood, and concentration in low doses.

How much caffeine is in dark chocolate compared to coffee and tea?

According to the source, dark chocolate with 60% cocoa has about 30 mg of caffeine per ounce, while cocoa powder contains 48 mg/oz. Green tea contains 25 mg/oz, while coffee contains 64-272 mg/8 oz.

You can see that the caffeine in a normal serving of chocolate is relatively low. So it's likely that eating chocolate won't keep you awake at night.

5. Dark chocolate can help relieve stress.

Magnesium is so good at helping you relax that it's been dubbed the "original novopassitis." This important mineral reduces stress by inhibiting the release of the stress hormone cortisol.

Magnesium is largely absent from our diet, but chocolate contains significant amounts.

Getting more magnesium from chocolate can improve memory, attention, mood, sleep, and stress tolerance.

6. Eating dark chocolate can help control food cravings.

This is true, but indulging in cheap chocolates will only aggravate the situation. On the other hand, dark chocolate is very filling, so you will eat much less.

Therefore, it can help you make healthy food choices, cut calories, and lose weight.

7. Consuming dark chocolate can protect your brain for a lifetime.

There have been many interesting findings related to the use of chocolate in the treatment of brain related diseases such as stroke and dementia. Powerful antioxidants found in dark chocolate reduce the risk of dementia.

Indeed, the more chocolate the elderly ate, the less dementia they developed.

Consuming foods rich in flavonoids such as cocoa has the potential to limit, prevent or reverse age-related decline in brain function.

8. Dark chocolate supports gut bacteria, which helps your brain.

One of the most unusual evidence that chocolate is good for the brain and health is that it increases the good bacteria in your gut. And oddly enough, this is good news for your brain!

Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are two of the most common "good" bacteria in your gut and in most probiotic supplements.

They act as antioxidants, protecting the brain from free radicals. Chocolate acts as a prebiotic, keeping good bacteria levels in check while bad bacteria are kept in check.

An overabundance of bad bacteria can lower brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels.

It is an essential chemical that is essential for keeping existing brain cells healthy and stimulating new brain cells to form.

9. Eating dark chocolate can make you smarter.

Chocolate is good for the brain, so says one study, it reports that the more chocolate a country consumes, the more Nobel laureates it has!

While this may sound like a joke, the study was published in the reputable New England Journal of Medicine. On a more serious note, eating chocolate has been shown to increase brain plasticity, a factor that has been linked to increased intelligence.

What to look for when buying chocolate and is it true that dark chocolate is better for the brain than milk chocolate?

Nobody doubts that chocolate is good for the brain, but which chocolate is better, milk or dark?

Compared to milk chocolate, dark chocolate contains more of the things that are good for you, like flavonoids and antioxidants, and less of the things that aren't so good, like sugar.

It is thought that the dairy in milk chocolate may interfere with the absorption of flavonoids, but research has been inconclusive so far.

What percentage of cocoa content in chocolate is more beneficial for the brain?

When you see the cocoa percentage on a dark chocolate label, it indicates the total percentage of all cocoa bean derivatives - chocolate liqueur, cocoa butter and cocoa powder.

Overall, 70% is a good amount to start with if you want to experience the authentic health benefits of dark chocolate.

If you don't really like chocolate with 70% cocoa content, then it is advisable to start with at least 50%, and then gradually increase the percentage.

Like many wonderful things in life, eating very dark chocolate can be an acquired taste, especially since chocolate is good for the brain.

Many of us have heard that chocolate is very good for the brain. Even a small piece of tile is enough to improve memory and concentration, which means that you can successfully pass an exam or an important report. About which chocolates are most useful for the brain and why, you will learn from this article.

What does chocolate do to us?

To the question of whether chocolate is healthy, you can answer with firm certainty that yes. Dark dark chocolate is considered the most useful, since it contains the largest amount of natural cocoa beans.

It is noteworthy that during the Second World War, it was this confectionery product that was included in the diet of American soldiers. Bars with a similar recipe can be seen today on the shelves of supermarkets - these are the famous Hershey's bars.

To understand how chocolate affects the brain, scientists from around the world have conducted various experiments. As a result of the experiments, some curious facts were clarified.

• Improved cognitive performance
  The ability to learn and good concentration is higher in those people who regularly consume chocolate in moderation. This is due to the flavonoids contained in cocoa beans. Even with chronic lack of sleep and overwork, this product allows you to activate brain activity and show good results in exams. In addition, flavonoids, when regularly taken into the body, can be considered a prophylactic against the development of dementia and other age-related changes in the brain.
• Prevention of premature cell aging
  Chocolate is good for the brain due to its high content of antioxidants, which protect against the effects of free oxygen molecules. The effect of such molecules on the body is very destructive. Just as with age, wrinkles appear in a person, nerve cells become unusable. It is cocoa beans that neutralize the harm of oxygen molecules, prolonging the life of cells.
• Mood boost
  Chocolate bar in a moment of sadness and irritability helps to restore a cheerful outlook on life. This happens due to the release of hormones of happiness - endorphins. The feeling of joy and euphoria quickly replaces sadness, and the person feels happier. Thanks to the complex substance phenylethylamine contained in cocoa beans, sweet teeth even have a feeling of falling in love, since the effect of the substance on the brain while eating dessert is similar to meeting a loved one.
• Memory improvement
  Dark chocolate helps the brain improve short-term memory and even increases mental capacity in older people. It does this by increasing blood flow to the brain. British scientists have proven that during the first 2-3 hours after eating a confectionery, memory, concentration, reaction speed improve, quick wit increases in sweet tooth. That is why it is recommended to eat some high-quality chocolate before the exam in order to get the brain to work actively.

How to use it

Despite such an impressive effect from the use of this popular confectionery, you should not regard it as a panacea. Mastering new complex activities, reading non-fiction books, talking to intellectuals - all this will have a better effect on the state of your brain than eating chocolate bars every day while watching a frivolous series.

Also pay attention to the quality and type of product used. It should be good dark chocolate in reasonable doses (several slices). Otherwise, a slight improvement in cognitive abilities will be blocked by the risk of developing diabetes and obesity.