Benefits of Chocolate for Perimenopause

During perimenopause, chocolate can be a delightful and beneficial addition to your diet. But it’s crucial to consume chocolate in moderation and to pick a premium dark chocolate with little to no added sugar. 

Benefits of Chocolate

Numerous substances found in chocolate have been shown to reduce various perimenopause symptoms. For example, cocoa substances can help lower inflammation and enhance cardiovascular health. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in chocolate, can raise serotonin levels in the brain and elevate mood. The caffeine in chocolate can help fight exhaustion and offer a natural energy boost. 

Additionally, chocolate can assist in controlling blood sugar levels, which is crucial during perimenopause. Changes in hormone levels can result in insulin resistance, which raises blood sugar levels and raises the risk of type 2 diabetes. Chocolate contains antioxidants that can help avoid insulin resistance and support normal blood sugar levels.

How to Incorporate Chocolate into Your Diet during Perimenopause

Despite the fact that chocolate can be a delectable treat, it’s crucial to include it in moderation as part of a healthy diet. Here are some suggestions for perimenopausal women on how to include chocolate in their diets:

1. Pick Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is healthier since it has higher levels of flavonoids than milk chocolate. Choose dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa solids.
2. Watch Your Portions: Limit your daily chocolate intake to 1-2 ounces. This quantity gives you the advantages without loading up on sugar or calories.
3. Combine Chocolate with Other Healthy Foods: For a balanced snack, try combining chocolate with fruit like strawberries or bananas or nuts like almonds or walnuts.
4. Avoid chocolate with additional sugar. Find chocolate sweetened with stevia or other natural sweeteners.

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Written by Karen Manalac