Crave fatty, comfort foods while stressed? This study offers a solution

But what is the connection between the two? Indianexpress.com asked experts to shed light and illustrate the health benefits of adding cocoa to one’s diet, especially at night.

“Cocoa is rich in flavanol, which is a potent antioxidant, and magnesium, and thus has been studied by scientists for its role in protecting the inner lining of blood vessels against unhealthy fat consumption by individuals who succumb to stress eating,” says Edwina Raj, Head of Services, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru.

Namrata Arya, a dietitian at Diet n Nutrition Clinic in Delhi, said that cocoa, which is prepared from beans of the cocoa tree, has several compounds that can help tackle stress-induced cravings. “It has anandamide, which is a bliss chemical that provides a feeling of euphoria…theobromine acts as a mild stimulant and magnesium plays a role in lowering stress,” she says.

Cocoa has several compounds that can help tackle stress-induced cravings (Pic credits: Pexels)

Cocoa can help reduce inflammation, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and also helps improve brain functioning. Arya says cocoa can be added to one’s diet and can be consumed in the form of smoothies and hot chocolate. It can also be added to baked goods, she adds. However, a measured quantity of 4-6 teaspoons daily is optimal, says Arya, pointing out that several studies have pointed out that consuming cocoa at night helps improve sleep quality.

As a word of caution, she advises being careful of having cocoa, cacao and chocolates during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, saying it can trigger constrictions of major blood vessels which could negatively impact the baby’s blood circulation. Cocoa should also be kept away from pets such as dogs and cats as it is not good for their health, she adds.