5 ways chocolate is good for women

It may reduce pain

A recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that rats don’t respond as quickly to pain while they’re eating chocolate. While this might explain why nothing in the world could drag you away from your chocolate, the study’s researchers say this pain-killing effect could be detrimental to humans as it could contribute to obesity. So remember to enjoy chocolate’s soothing properties in moderation.

It may prevent pregnancy complications

A study found that a chemical (theobromine) found in chocolate may reduce preeclampsia, a major pregnancy complication. The darker the chocolate, the better.

Preeclampsia is primarily noted for raising blood pressure in pregnant women, and eating chocolate helps to lower this risk by up to 69 percent. The study of nearly 2,300 women established greater benefits to those who ate five or more servings per week, especially in their third trimester.

It helps fight PMS

“There’s a reason we crave certain foods, such as chocolate, at that time of the month,” says Toronto-based raw foods coach Nathalie Lussier. “Chocolate releases calming endorphins that reduce anxiety. Plus, it’s high in magnesium,” which lifts moods and reduces water retention.

It protects against heart disease

Scientists at Linköping University in Sweden have learned how dark chocolate benefits the heart. Their research found that volunteers who consumed 75 grams of unsweetened chocolate with a cocoa content of 72 percent, had an 18 percent lowered activity level in the enzyme that raises blood pressure.

It helps you stay slim

A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine has found that people who eat chocolate frequently tend to have a lower body mass index. In the study of about 1,000 U.S. men and women, those who ate chocolate a few times a week were, on average, slimmer than occasional chocolate eaters.

Related:
• 3 ways to relieve PMS symptoms
• Foods that fight PMS
• Is chocolate healthy?