According to experts from the University of Laval (Quebec province in Canada), the use of chocolate during pregnancy improves fetal growth and development, but also can improve the function of the placenta.

What is useful chocolate during pregnancy?

Flavanols found in cocoa, which is a major component of chocolate, are useful for pregnant women. The darker the chocolate, the more it contains flavan.

Chocolate regulates blood pressure

Theobromine present in cocoa helps regulate blood pressure in pregnant women by expanding the blood vessels.

It contains antioxidants

Chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which are known to be powerful antioxidants. It's antioxidant properties help pregnant women increase the level of immunity and fight some types of cancer.

It prevents heart disease

Antioxidant ability to dark chocolate has an important role in the prevention of heart disease and, therefore, supports the cardiovascular system. The darker and the higher the quality of the chocolate, the better for the heart.

relieves stress

It found that dark chocolate improves mood by raising the levels of endorphins and serotonin in the brain.

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Chocolate is good for the baby in the womb

The results of research in the journal New Scientist Magazine say that chocolate during pregnancy affects the birth of a happy child.

The researchers randomly selected a few mothers who had a six-month children, and asked them how often they had chocolate during pregnancy, and then asked to rate the level of happiness of their kids.

Mothers who often have chocolate in her pregnancy, gave a higher score of happiness for their children than mothers who did not have chocolate regularly.

Another interesting finding from the study was the fact that it protects children from the mother's stress. Mothers who did not use chocolate, showed high levels of stress during pregnancy had children who often show fear. Mothers who ate chocolate showed a low level of stress and had babies who were less shy.

pregnant woman eating chocolate

Regulates cholesterol

The flavonoids in dark chocolate increase cholesterol levels, reduce the oxidation of bad cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels. They also improve circulation by making the blood vessels elastic.

Chocolate - a good source of iron and magnesium

About 100 g of a dark chocolate gives about 67% of the recommended daily intake of iron and 58% magnesium.

Why too much chocolate is harmful during pregnancy?

Despite the benefits of dark chocolate during pregnancy, this product has contraindications.

The pregnant woman should not overeat chocolate during pregnancy for the following reasons:

  1. Caffeine. For pregnant it is important to monitor the consumption of caffeine, as it can lead to miscarriage. Chocolate contains caffeine and when you mix it with tea, coffee or other drinks, you will exceed the recommended daily amount. In addition, it is known that caffeine causes heartburn. Many women experience heartburn during pregnancy due to the physical and hormonal changes. In this situation, you should avoid or limit the consumption of chocolate to relieve heartburn.
  2. Fat and calories. Too much consumption of chocolate can cause excessive weight gain due to increased fat and calorie intake. Thus, the introduction of excess weight causes varicose veins, gestational diabetes, hypertension, etc.
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Before the use of chocolate during pregnancy is recommended to consult a doctor.

Photo: shutterstock

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