When it comes to pregnancy, everybody has an opinion. Whether you are currently pregnant, hoping to fall pregnant, were pregnant 25 years ago or simply looked at a baby during your lunch break, you’ve probably been offered loads of unsolicited advice about everything from what to wear, what to do (or not) and what to eat. If you feel a bit lost in the sea of tips tricks and old wives tales, don’t panic!
In this article, we’re going straight to the facts.
You may have heard that you shouldn’t eat chocolate during pregnancy because it contains caffeine and can hurt your baby, or that it can complicate pregnancy. Others say there’s nothing wrong with it. Who should you believe when you’re dying of cravings for a rich dessert?
We have asked the experts for their opinion, and this is what they shared with us…
CHOCOLATE PREVENTS PRE-ECLAMPSIA
Preclampsia is a delicate condition that can only occur during pregnancy, and consists of a rapid increase in blood pressure. It is a common cause of premature delivery and maternal death and should be taken as a serious hazard. In other cases, it can lead to blood clots in the arteries, liver tissue damage, kidney failure, or lifelong blood pressure problems. Fortunately, chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which protects you from pre-eclampsia. According to Yale University studies, regular chocolate consumption during pregnancy can reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia by up to 50%.
REGULATES BLOOD PRESSURE
Theobromine, a substance found in cocoa, helps to maintain a stable blood pressure, ensuring a stable flow of nutrients and oxygen to the baby, and at the same time protects the mother from heart disease.
HAPPY BABIES
According to several studies, mothers who regularly eat chocolate during pregnancy have happier, more alert newborns. One study that observed 300 pregnant women found that women who used chocolate to relieve stress had happier babies. Other smaller studies reported that babies had faster reactions to the stimuli of their environment. This is due to a substance present in chocolate, known as phenylethylamine, which is passed from mother to baby.
CHOCOLATE IS RICH IN ANTIOXIDANTS
Chocolate is a food rich in flavonoids, which in turn contain a lot of antioxidants. Consuming them during pregnancy helps strengthen the immune system, as well as being beneficial in preventing certain types of cancer and improving the cardiovascular health of pregnant women.
CHOCOLATE PREVENTS HEART DISEASE
Good news dessert lovers: the more cocoa you have with your dessert, the better it will be for your heart! Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants that help you reduce stress and oxidation, as well as improve your cardiovascular health. But don’t forget, chocolate doesn’t work miracles either, and regular physical activity is an important part of your health.
CHOCOLATE REDUCES STRESS
All women, pregnant or not, can agree on this: eating chocolate is comforting and makes us feel great. Including it in your diet in a moderate way can help improve your mood. Of course, as with any other type of food, you have to eat it in moderation. So now you know, you can definitely enjoy chocolate during your pregnancy!
Important: Our intention is only to offer information of a general nature to help in the pursuit of development and personal growth. Before following these tips, always consult your trusted doctor.
