Craving for chocolate is normal during pregnancy. However, be sure that your chocolate consumption rate is moderate. The reason behind is chocolate contains caffeine and American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2008 found that it is very necessary that a pregnant woman must keep the level of caffeine intake below 200 mg/day1. Too much intake of caffeine can lower your hunger and leads to less intake of essential foods during pregnancy.
Chocolates have their own nutritional value that is helpful for a pregnant woman. Chocolates contain magnesium that helps in regulating blood pressure, theobromine helps in oxidizing the function of kidney and flavonoids are antioxidants which helps in stimulating the blood vessels.
There are various other benefits of eating chocolate during pregnancy such as:
- It helps in providing relief from pre-eclampsia, a condition where the pregnant mother is inclined towards having high blood pressure and an increase in the level of protein. So, the theobromine found in chocolates can reduce the pre-eclampsia condition and lessens the risk by 70 %.
- The flavonoids present in the chocolate works as an antioxidant which helps in increasing the immunity level of the pregnant woman. The antioxidants also help in reducing the risk of heart disease. The flavonoids also help in balancing the level of cholesterol in the body.
- Chocolate helps to increase the release of serotonin and endorphin in the brain. The resveratrol present in chocolate protects the brain and the nervous system.
Don’t get too much excited that during pregnancy you can eat any kind of chocolate.
Because not all the chocolates are better for the suitable for pregnant women because normal chocolates contain sweeteners that may lead to diabetes. So, only the dark chocolate is good for health as it contains a good amount of essential nutrients and low quantity of sweeteners. Avoid chocolate mousse because it includes raw eggs which are unsuitable for a pregnant mother. During pregnancy, chocolate milk, hot chocolate, and white chocolate are all considered safe for use. As long as you apply with your limits, the occasional intake of chocolate cake and ice cream are acceptable.
Occasionally, dark chocolate could be a tolerant treat and can certainly take its place in a healthy and well-balanced diet. Though, if you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes or any other medical issues of pregnancy, it is always recommended that you must consult your nutritionist prior to making any changes to your diet.
References:
https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/caffeine-intake-during-pregnancy/