A chemical found in chocolate called theobromine has many benefits for the body and the brain.
According to a study from
Zhengzhou University in China published April 1 in the Journal of Functional
Foods, Theobromine found in cocoa beans, is anti-inflammatory, high in
antioxidants and can protect the brain from Alzheimer’s.
Scientists also say that
theobromine can counter the impact of high cholesterol levels on memory and
cognitive function.
Theobromine can cross the
blood-brain function to potentially boost brain function as well as mood and
fight against depression.
“Theobromine has demonstrated
neuroprotective properties, the ability to prevent neuronal damage, and
enhancements in motor memory and cognitive regulatory functions,” the study
authors wrote.
“Given its low incidence of
side effects and minimal harm to the human body at appropriate doses,
theobromine and its derivatives show promise as effective agents for preventing
brain-related disorders, presenting significant prospects in the medical field,”
they continued.
In essence the study says that eating
chocolate could also help someone lose weight because theobromine helps the
body break down fats.
The authors referenced another
study that found a link between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity.
“In a study by Dan Wei et al.,
the effects of theobromine on an NAFLD mouse model were examined, revealing
that theobromine led to reductions in body weight, liver weight, and
improvements in liver morphology,” they explained.
“Inflammation is a multifaceted
process that engages white blood cells and the release of chemicals into the
bloodstream or affected tissues to combat foreign invaders,” they explained.
“Theobromine demonstrates
anti-inflammatory effects on diverse cell types, including macrophages and
chondrocytes.”
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