It is not only tasty, but it is positive for health, therefore it contributes to making sport more efficient. Chocolate, providing bioactive compounds can contribute to performance improvement. Chocolate, especially the dark with a high percentage of cocoa, offers vasodilator properties that can benefit athletes.
This is explained by the Professor of Health Sciences of the Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) Laura Esquius, who through a press release highlighted the chocolate capabilities from the flavonoid elements, favoring blood flow and the improvement of mood.
Flavonoids and polyphenols present in cocoa contribute to vascular health and have an antioxidant effect, fighting oxidative stress generated during exercise, he highlights.
Types of chocolate and its impact on health
Not all chocolates provide the same benefits. The importance of choosing those that contain 70% or more cocoa is emphasized, avoiding ultraprocessed products that can reduce their healthy properties. Dark chocolates contribute greater benefits for their concentration of flavonoids and their lower sugar and fat content.
According to a study of the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolismthe consumption of black chocolate in a moderate and controlled way improves the performance in tests of endurance. Thanks to the vasodilators effects, sports that are most benefited from their intake are those that work this capacity, such as cycling, background career and triathlon, among others, the agency quotes EFE.
Another recent study, from the University of Bologna, determines that chocolate in young professional soccer players Improves recovery perception. It makes it relieved pain, reducing muscle swelling, favoring performance in high intensity actions and adding ergogenic effects on resistance, energy and motor control.
But how and when to ingest it?
To make the most of the benefits of chocolate, it is suggested to follow certain guidelines:
“Connsume it in small amounts between 30 and 90 minutes before the year.” This to avoid digestive discomfort.
—Evitate your intake just before or during activities. Pure cocoa takes time to digest and can be annoying for the athlete, in addition to the laxative effect for some people.
—Consider post-exercise consumption, preferably in smoothies and, if possible, combine carbohydrates and proteins, to help recovery.
“Do not consume chocolate at night due to your stimulating properties.” By their compounds in caffeine and theobromine they can affect sleep.
—Partar preferably due to cocoa powers dissolved in liquids. In tablet, if it is in small quantities.
—Crehazar commercial chocolates that are outraged, such as milk chocolate, chocolate, etc. tablets.
Precautions in chocolate consumption
Chocolate intake is not recommended for individuals with gastrointestinal problems, migraines, insomnia or high stimulating sensitivity.
Chocolate should be considered as part of a balanced diet, not as a miraculous supplement, the expert warns.
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