Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Dark Chocolate can Ward Off Depression Symptoms
Advertisement

Dark Chocolate can Ward Off Depression Symptoms

Highlights:
  • Dark chocolates are good for depression, as they are rich in flavonoids and antioxidant chemicals
  • Eating some dark chocolate every day can significantly enhance your mood and reduce the risk of depression

Are you a chocolate lover? If yes, then rejoice. Eating dark chocolate can boost your mood and fight depression, according to a new study led by a team of researchers at the University College London(UCL). The findings of the study are published in the journal Depression and Anxiety.

Is Dark Chocolate Really Good for Depression?


Yes, dark chocolate has a higher concentration of flavonoids, antioxidant chemicals which have been shown to improve inflammatory profiles and mood-enhancing properties, which have been shown to play an important role in the onset of depression. Previous studies have also reported chocolate and depression go hand in hand.

Listen to this article
0:00/0:00
Advertisement


Details of the Study


The research team evaluated data from 13,626 adults from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants' chocolate consumption was assessed against their scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire, which assesses depressive symptoms.

In the cross-sectional study, a variety of other factors such as height, weight, marital status, education, ethnicity, household income, physical activity, smoking, and chronic health problems were also taken into account to ensure the study only measured dark chocolate's effect on the symptoms of depression.
Advertisement

After adjusting for these factors, the results were observed after the participants reported whether they ate any dark chocolate in two 24-hour periods. The research team explained chocolate had been widely reported to exhibit mood-boosting effects.

Findings of the Study


The study findings highlight that nearly 25 percent of people who ate most chocolate (of any kind, not just dark) were less prone to depression compared to those who did not eat chocolates.

Lead author Dr. Sarah Jackson (UCL Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care) said: "This study provides some evidence that consumption of chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, may be associated with reduced odds of clinically relevant depressive symptoms."

"However further research is required to clarify the direction of causation -- it could be the case that depression causes people to lose their interest in eating chocolate, or there could be other factors that make people both less likely to eat dark chocolate and to be depressed."


Source: Medindia
Font : A-A+

Cite this Article   close

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Health Watch

 Seasonal Affective Disorder: Chasing Away the Winter Blues
Explore the impact of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and its connection to winter. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and effective coping strategies.
How to Help an Anxious Person? What to Say and What to Avoid
Empathize with those suffering from anxiety, avoid dismissive language, and provide support.
How Does Gluten Intolerance in Celiac Disease Impact Dental Health?
Due to gluten intolerance, celiac disease chronically inflames the small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption.
 Yoga Reduces Seizures Frequency in Epilepsy Patients
Discover the transformative power of yoga in reducing epilepsy-related stigma, anxiety, and seizures.
 Diabetes Complications: Silent Threat to Heart, Kidneys, and Nerves
Explore the alarming findings of a nationwide diabetes study uncovering risks of kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Dark Chocolate can Ward Off Depression Symptoms Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests