Chocolate has been known to be favourite snack for all people. Interestingly, chocolate is not only for satisfaction, but also provides health benefits. In a recent study, scientists delved into the realm of dark chocolate to uncover its impact on daily mood and its potential connection to the gut-brain axis. While the mood-altering properties of dark chocolate have been acknowledged, the emotional effects of daily consumption have remained relatively unexplored. To explore its mechanism, the gut microbiota were determined.
The Study:
A randomized controlled trial involving healthy adults aged 20 to 30 was performed. Theywere divided into three groups: one consumed 30 grams per day of dark chocolate with 85% cocoa content (DC85), another group consumed dark chocolate with 70% cocoa content (DC70), and a control group abstained from chocolate entirely (CON). The study spanned three weeks.
Measuring Mood:
Mood states were assessed using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), a well-established tool for gauging emotional well-being. Surprisingly, the results revealed that daily consumption of 85% cocoa dark chocolate significantly reduced negative affect, indicating an improvement in emotional states. However, this positive effect was not observed in the group consuming 70% cocoa dark chocolate.
Gut-Brain Axis Connection:
To delve deeper into the connection between mood and the gut microbiota, the researchers performed fecal 16S rRNA sequencing analysis for the DC85 and CON groups. The results were intriguing; gut microbial diversity was significantly higher in the 85% cocoa group compared to the control group.
Specifically, levels of Blautia obeum were notably elevated, while levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii were reduced in the DC85 group. Correlation analysis further revealed that the changes in negative affect scores were negatively linked to the diversity and relative abundance of Blautia obeum.
Prebiotic Effects of Dark Chocolate:
These findings suggest that dark chocolate, particularly with 85% cocoa content, exerts prebiotic effects. This is evidenced by its ability to reshape the diversity and abundance of intestinal bacteria. The study implies that dark chocolate may contribute to an improvement in negative emotional states by influencing the gut-brain axis.
Conclusion:
In the world of culinary delights, dark chocolate, specifically with a high cocoa content, appears to offer not only a treat for the taste buds but also a potential mood boost. As we continue to unravel the complex interplay between our diet, gut health, and emotional well-being, dark chocolate emerges as a delightful contender in the quest for a happier gut and a happier you.
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