Research suggests that adding more cocoa powder to your diet may help to improve your attention, working memory, and general cognition. It may also restore cognitive performance in people with sleep loss. Cocoa powder is rich in theobromine and flavonols, which may protect you against heart disease by lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow, and preventing cell damage.
Additionally, cocoa is rich in phytonutrients, which have multiple health benefits. Studies have found that cocoa helps regulate energy use and metabolism while also increasing feelings of fullness. Cocoa powder also contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that help improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Additionally, cocoa contains iron, zinc, selenium, and magnesium. All of the herbs included in this blend have strong energizing properties. Dark chocolate is high in cocoa polyphenols, which function as potent antioxidants that promote cardiovascular and brain health. These compounds may increase blood flow to the brain, fight inflammation, and boost levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps neurons grow.
Chocolate is an energy-rich food: on average, it contains 550 calories per 100 grams, which corresponds to 55 kcal per two small squares. This is partly because chocolate has a low level of moisture (less than 1%) and contains a significant amount of fat, i.e. cocoa butter (naturally present in cocoa beans). Fat is the most energy-dense macronutrient – it provides 9 kcal per gram, compared to 4 kcal per gram of carbohydrates and proteins. Therefore, chocolate is particularly appreciated by people who carry out strenuous physical activity, such as athletes.