Chocolate Brings Both Happiness and Health Benefits

Sabri Ülker Vakfı shares important information about the health benefits of chocolate on World Chocolate Day, 7 July, a treat enjoyed by nearly everyone.

Since its establishment in 2009, Sabri Ülker Vakfı has worked to contribute to the development of food, nutrition and healthy living awareness, with the aim of conveying the most accurate, current and scientific information on these subjects to society. On the occasion of World Chocolate Day on 7 July, the foundation is drawing attention to the relationship between chocolate and health. Recalling that chocolate evokes happiness for people of all ages, from 7 to 70, Sabri Ülker Vakfı shares scientific information about the relationship between this beloved flavour and health.

Protective Against Cardiovascular and Diabetes Diseases

When it comes to the relationship between chocolate and health, the polyphenol, mineral and fibre content of chocolate is most frequently discussed. But what do these polyphenols do? Polyphenols exhibit antioxidant properties. Chocolate containing significant amounts of polyphenols is therefore noted to be potentially protective against cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in particular. Furthermore, polyphenols are reported to enhance the functional properties of the internal structure of blood vessels, increasing the ability of vessels to dilate, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of hypertension. Additionally, chocolate is known to increase HDL cholesterol levels in the blood, which is considered beneficial. Besides polyphenols, chocolate contains minerals such as magnesium, sodium, potassium, copper, zinc and fibre. This remarkable trio is known to support heart health and play a role in controlling blood cholesterol levels. Another component of chocolate is fat... While it contains more saturated fat, the unsaturated fatty acids in chocolate's composition are known to help control LDL cholesterol levels, which are considered harmful.

Should Be Consumed in Moderation

The idea of eating chocolate and its consumption are both associated with happiness... This is because tryptophan, an amino acid found in chocolate, stimulates the release of serotonin, also known as the happiness hormone. Additionally, caffeine and theobromine in chocolate stimulate the nervous system, contributing to the reduction of fatigue and stress. When consuming chocolate as part of adequate and balanced nutrition, with portion control and consumption frequency balanced, chocolate helps you prevent insulin resistance and improve your health through its polyphenol and theobromine content rather than making you gain weight.