Cocoa, good for our brains!
As Easter approaches, let's talk about chocolate - quality chocolate, of course.
Cocoa is good for our brains; the top one, the brain, the bottom one, the intestine, and the middle one, the heart.
Impact on the Intestine
The fermentation of cocoa brings good bacteria for the intestine, the probiotic effect of the cocoa polyphenols promotes the good functioning of the microbiota. It is worth noting that chocolate rich in cocoa paste can exceed 12g of fiber per 100g, more than whole wheat bread; a good way to feed the world of intestinal prebiotics.
Impact on Libido
Speaking of which, since we were talking about the lower brain, let's go down one more level and talk about sex. Chocolate can be considered an aphrodisiac as it boosts the brain's endorphins. On a vascular level, its polyphenols allow for better dilation of blood vessels, activate NO (nitric oxide), and therefore promote erection. Phenylethylamine (PEA) promotes the intracerebral secretion of dopamine and increases libido, in both men and women.
Impact on the Heart
Let's go up two levels and stop at the heart. Cocoa is rich in potassium, a regulator of blood pressure, and also rich in polyphenols which are excellent antioxidants reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Impact on the Brain
And since we've reached the top, that is, the upper brain level, let's look at the benefits of cocoa on our brain: Cocoa polyphenols reduce the risk of stroke, its theobromine has a psychostimulant effect and helps to reduce mental fatigue. Chocolate regularly contains soy lecithin (emulsifier), good for the liver and brain, and rich in choline, the precursor of acetylcholine - one of the most important brain neurotransmitters, essential for cognitive processes and good memory!
In the end, consuming a few squares of dark chocolate is not so bad, is it?