If you’ve ever reached for a bar of chocolate during your period, you’re not alone. Period cravings are a well-documented phenomenon, and chocolate, especially dark chocolate, often tops the list. But while it may feel like indulgence, nutritionists say that giving in to this craving might actually be beneficial. According to Deepsikha Jain, a renowned nutritionist and certified national diabetes educator, dark chocolate isn’t just a treat – it’s a powerful ally during menstruation.
Dark Chocolate: A Natural Remedy For Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps, medically known as dysmenorrhea, can be debilitating for many women. They occur due to the contraction of uterine muscles and are often accompanied by inflammation. In a recent video, Deepsikha explained that dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, a vital mineral known for its muscle-relaxing properties. Magnesium helps reduce the intensity of cramps and also tackles nausea and general period discomfort.
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In her words, “Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, which helps reduce period cramps, nausea, and discomfort. It also positively affects the brain, improving your mood during those tough days.”
The Top 3 Reasons To Eat Dark Chocolate On Your Period
Deepsikha breaks down the primary benefits of including dark chocolate in your menstrual diet into three clear points:
- Relief from Cramps: The magnesium content in dark chocolate reduces muscle contractions in the uterus, which can significantly ease the pain and discomfort caused by cramps.
- Mood Booster: Periods don’t just affect the body – they play havoc with your emotions too. Magnesium also plays a role in boosting serotonin levels – the “feel-good” hormone. As serotonin increases, so does your mood, helping fight off irritability, sadness, and anxiety.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants that help combat inflammation – a key cause of period pain. These antioxidants not only reduce inflammation but also promote better circulation, easing overall discomfort.
How Much Is Too Much? Understanding Portion and Percentage
Cravings can easily lead to overconsumption, so how much dark chocolate should you really eat to get the benefits without going overboard? Deepshika recommends consuming about 2 to 3 small pieces of dark chocolate during the luteal phase of your cycle – the phase that begins after ovulation (around day 15 of a 28-day cycle) and continues until menstruation starts.
But not all chocolate is created equal. The cacao content matters. Deepshika advises women to look for dark chocolate with at least 70-80% cacao solids. The higher the cacao content, the richer the chocolate is in beneficial nutrients like magnesium and antioxidants. Bars with lower cacao levels tend to have higher sugar content, which may contribute to bloating and mood swings.
An Empowering Approach to Period Wellness
The idea that food can support your body through natural biological processes isn’t new, but it’s gaining increasing attention thanks to social media influencers and health professionals like Deepsikha Jain. She advocates for mindful consumption and using nutrition as a tool for empowerment rather than restriction.
Rather than feeling guilty about that square of chocolate, it might be time to see it for what it really is: a simple, natural way to support your body during menstruation. By choosing the right type and amount, women can actually harness chocolate’s benefits to manage symptoms more effectively.
Bottomline
The next time you find yourself reaching for chocolate during your period, don’t fight it – embrace it smartly. Opt for a high-quality dark chocolate bar with a high cacao percentage, enjoy it in moderation, and allow its nutritional magic to support your health. Period wellness doesn't have to be complicated – sometimes, it really is as simple as a few squares of dark chocolate.