15 good reasons to eat chocolate during menstruation

Eating chocolates during menstruation can relieve pain, as menstruation is a natural part of the female reproductive cycle that is often accompanied by unpleasant symptoms such as cramps, headaches and mood swings.

Although it may seem like chocolate only provides temporary pleasure, it actually has real health benefits during menstruation, as it contains chemicals that can have beneficial effects on mood and emotional well-being.

One of these compounds is theobromine, which acts as a vasodilator and helps relax smooth muscles.

Additionally, chocolate contains magnesium, which can help reduce menstrual cramps and improve mood.

It may also have analgesic properties due to the effects of the psychoactive compounds present in cocoa.

However, it is important to note that chocolate can also contain high levels of sugar and fat, which can have negative effects on overall health if consumed in excess.

These are the reasons to eat chocolate during menstruation

Mood improvement

One of the benefits of eating chocolate during menstruation is that it can improve your mood. Many women experience mood swings during menstruation , and chocolate can help reduce these swings as it contains tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted to serotonin in the body.

Chocolate contains compounds that can stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin in the brain. This can be especially comforting during a time when some people may be feeling more emotional or sensitive.

Energy contribution

Chocolate is often considered a source of energy during the menstrual period due to its content of nutrients and compounds that can have effects on the body.

Although it is not a source of energy in the sense of calories and nutrients essential for physical activity or sports when you are on your days , there are several reasons why chocolate is perceived to provide energy this time:

• Sugars and carbohydrates: Chocolate, especially milk chocolate and other types of sweets, contains sugars and carbohydrates that can provide a temporary boost of energy. Carbohydrates are an important source of fuel for the body and can provide a short-term energy boost.

• Caffeine and theobromine: Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains small amounts of caffeine and theobromine. These compounds may have stimulant effects that help increase alertness and energy.

• You may be interested: Is it bad to drink alcohol when I have my period? Could I do it without problem?

Appetite regulation

Chocolate, especially dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, has been associated in some studies with regulating appetite and feeling full. Although it is not an appetite regulator in the direct sense of suppressing hunger, there are several mechanisms by which chocolate could influence appetite control:

• Fiber content: Dark chocolate with high cocoa content may contain significant amounts of dietary fiber. Fiber is known for its ability to increase feelings of satiety by slowing digestion and helping to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

• Sensory effect: The rich flavor and texture of chocolate can provide a pleasant and satisfying sensory experience, which can contribute to feeling fuller and more satisfied after eating it.

• Active compounds: Dark chocolate contains bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which can influence satiety signals in the brain and digestive system. These compounds could interact with hormones and neurotransmitters involved in appetite control.

Increased serotonin

Chocolate contains components that can influence the release of serotonin, a chemical in the brain known as a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in regulating mood, appetite and other physiological processes.

One of these components is tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin. Tryptophan is necessary for the synthesis of serotonin in the brain. Although the amount of tryptophan in chocolate is relatively small, it is believed that it may contribute to increasing serotonin levels, especially when combined with other factors.

Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and theobromines, which may influence the release and activity of neurotransmitters, including serotonin.

The flavor and texture of this food can provide a pleasant and satisfying experience. This positive psychological effect can influence emotional well-being, which in turn can contribute to the release of serotonin.

Pain relief

Chocolate contains compounds called flavonoids, which help with inflammation. Menstrual cramps are caused by the contraction of the uterus and inflammation can make these cramps worse. Eating chocolate can reduce inflammation and therefore decrease the intensity of cramps. Also take a look at these home remedies that will help you relieve pelvic pain .

Lowering blood pressure

Some studies claim that eating chocolate can have improved effects on blood pressure, so it would be useful for people with hypertension.

Improved cognitive function

Chocolate can improve cognitive function and memory, which can be helpful in coping with everyday tasks during menstruation.

Antioxidant properties

The favorable heart health benefits derived from cocoa are a result of the flavonoids present in it. These compounds are found in plant foods and are characterized by their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, which links them to the prevention of various diseases, such as cancer and, especially, heart conditions.

We could say that chocolate could help prevent cellular damage and improve overall health.

Stress reduction

US-based dietician Tracy Lockwood Beckerman offers perspective on dark chocolate, noting that its antioxidants can reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels, as well as the fight-or-flight response hormones known as catecholamines.

In a complementary look, Dr. Nicky Keay, endocrinologist and professor at University College London, adds in a Daily Mail article that cortisol, the main stress hormone in the body, when activated, directs energy away from the immune system. , which gives rise to those telltale sugar cravings. Keay explains: "The desire for chocolate is a response to a stressful situation, such as the need for energy," and goes on to say: "Being under stress increases the hormone cortisol, which consumes our energy reserves, so we feel the need. something sweet to raise our energy levels.

Increased libido

Now, chocolate cannot replace sex itself, since this experience encompasses a set of emotions, feelings and physical contact that cannot be replaced by chocolate.

The reason this idea is so popular lies in how our body reacts to both stimuli. This is due to the presence of a substance in chocolate known as phenylethylamine, which is produced by the brain in situations of falling in love or sexual arousal.

In addition, to the components considered aphrodisiacs, such as tryptophan or arginine, are added theobromine and caffeine, two natural stimulants that increase the mood and energy of those who consume them. These elements, together, contribute to the association between chocolate and a feeling of well-being.

Reduction of insomnia

Chocolate may contain melatonin, a hormone that can help regulate sleep and improve insomnia.

Nutrient contribution

It is a rich source of nutrients such as iron, magnesium and calcium, which can be beneficial for health during menstruation.

Depression reduction

Improves mood and reduces depression. This could be beneficial for people who experience depressive symptoms during menstruation.

Improved blood circulation

Chocolate can improve blood circulation, effective for people experiencing menstrual pain.

Helps reduce cravings for sweet foods

Cravings for sweet foods during your period could never go away. Chocolate is a food that can satisfy those cravings and would therefore reduce the need to consume less healthy foods. You have to take into account that there are different things you should not do when you have your period .

It is important to note that not all types of chocolates are equally beneficial during menstruation. Dark chocolate is the best option, as it contains a higher amount of flavonoids and less sugar than milk chocolate.

It should be noted that if you have a diet high in fats and sugars in general, it can worsen the symptoms of menstruation and make you feel more fatigue, bloating and pain, so eating chocolate during those days in excess could have opposite effects.

Therefore, it is essential to consume it in moderation and in combination with a balanced and healthy diet.

It is advisable to include nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, as well as regular exercise to improve mood and overall health. If the pain and symptoms are severe, it is important to see a doctor for proper treatment.

These articles may also interest you:

• The 15 hygienic habits related to menstruation that all women should know
• Why do I have a headache every time my period comes?
• 10 reasons why menstruation may be delayed, according to experts

Frequent questions

Does chocolate increase sexual desire in your menstrual cycle?

The relationship between chocolate and increased sexual desire in the menstrual cycle is a topic that has been the subject of interest and speculation, but is not supported by solid scientific evidence. Although some compounds present in chocolate, such as phenylethylamine, have been linked to feelings of pleasure and well-being, there is no conclusive evidence that chocolate has a direct and significant effect on increasing sexual desire. But we can tell you that it does give you the energy you will need to please your partner, since enjoying a little chocolate can contribute to a moment of pleasure and satisfaction that you will want to share with the person you like. We also have a list of things you should and should not eat when you are on your days.

Does chocolate really help with inflammation during menstruation?

Chocolate has antioxidant properties, which could help reduce inflammation and improve brain function, two aspects that our body could look for before the menstrual period. Likewise, it has a notable concentration of magnesium, an element recognized for its calming effect and its ability to induce sleep, being sometimes called a natural pain reliever in relieving muscle contractions, thus offering possible relief for menstrual cramps. . Take a look at these home remedies that will help you have a more comfortable period if you feel any inflammation .

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