Tuesday, October 8, 2013

The Link Between Chocolate And Digestion

By Catalina Nielsen


People all over the world love eating chocolates but not many are aware that there can be significant health benefits gained from eating them. Looking into the question of chocolate and digestion, it becomes obvious that the ingredients used in the manufacture of the chocolates have a large part to play. Many producers manufacturing chocolates today take health considerations very seriously. Dark organic chocolate has by far the most significant health and digestive benefits.

Darker chocolate with the most concentrated cocoa has the most health benefits. Cocoa beans are grown in countries like Ghana with an equatorial climate, meaning regular rainfall and humid conditions. In order for ingredients to be certified as organic they have to comply with various regulations such as no use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Manufacturers are increasingly opting for use of organic ingredients for their health benefits.

The beans contain high levels of antioxidants that absorb free radicals, preventing cell and tissue damage. They promote the health of the heart, helping prevent cardiovascular disease. Of course they also contain feel good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. It is no wonder that people say eating chocolates makes them feel better.

They are also rich in many such as vitamins A, B1, C and E. That play an important part in keeping the body healthy. Minerals such as copper, zinc, iron and potassium are also found and are vital for proper brain function, promoting cell growth, issue repair and absorption of nutrients.

There are cases in which chocolates are not good for the digestive system. Those containing milk are not good for people who are lactose intolerant. The complex sugar called lactose that is found in milk has to be broken down by a digestive enzyme called lactase. In some people, this does not happen resulting in undigested lactose which in turn causes problems like bloating, cramps and diarrhea. These individuals should buy products containing substitutes for dairy such as coconut milk.

Chocolates contain milk and this could cause digestive problems for those who are lactose intolerant. These people are usually deficient in an enzyme called lactase which is needed to break down the complex sugar found in the milk, enabling it to be digested. If this lactose is not broken down it can cause problems like bloating and abdominal pain. There are dairy-free products available for such individuals, containing substitutes such as coconut milk.

People with digestive conditions like celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome should be very careful when it comes to chocolates and should preferably avoid them. However, most people with healthy digestive systems have no problem when it comes to eating chocolates and in fact it helps their digestion. The reason for this is that the dietary fiber in the cocoa mass helps with the digestive process. It stimulates the intestinal movements which helps to keep the walls of the stomach and intestine clean.

When considering chocolate and digestion, it becomes evident that much depends on the health of the person concerned as well as the type of product that is consumed. There are many healthy options available, particularly at online stores. These products are made with the healthiest ingredients possible.




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