Dark chocolate, with its rich and creamy texture, has always been considered a luxurious indulgence. However, studies have shown that dark chocolate also has numerous health benefits, including improving female sexual function. Yes, you heard that right! Dark chocolate can help women enhance their sexual experience, and this article will delve deeper into the science behind it.
The Science of Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains a range of compounds that are beneficial for the body. One of the most significant of these is flavanols, which are a type of flavonoid that are naturally present in cocoa beans. Flavanols are powerful antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow throughout the body. They can also help to lower blood pressure, which is essential for maintaining good cardiovascular health.
Improving Female Sexual Function
Sexual function is a complex process that involves a range of physiological and psychological factors. However, the basic mechanism is that increased blood flow to the genital area results in improved sexual arousal and response. As flavanols improve blood flow throughout the body, it makes sense that they would also have a positive effect on sexual function.
A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2011 found that women who consumed chocolate regularly had higher sexual desire and better sexual function than those who did not. The study involved 1,208 women who completed a questionnaire about their chocolate consumption and sexual function. The results showed that women who ate chocolate had higher levels of sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction than those who did not. (1)
Another study published in the same journal in 2012 found that women who consumed chocolate daily had lower levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, and higher levels of the feel-good hormone, serotonin. The study also found that chocolate consumption was associated with better overall mood and increased feelings of pleasure. (2)
How does Dark Chocolate work?
The flavanols in dark chocolate work in several ways to improve sexual function in women. Firstly, they help to increase blood flow to the genital area, which results in improved arousal and response. Secondly, flavanols also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a negative impact on sexual function. Finally, they can increase the production of nitric oxide, which is a molecule that plays a key role in dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow.
How much Dark Chocolate should you eat?
While it’s tempting to overindulge in dark chocolate, it’s essential to remember that it is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation. The recommended daily amount is around 1-2 ounces or 30-60 grams of dark chocolate, which contains approximately 70% cocoa solids. It’s also important to choose high-quality chocolate that is minimally processed and contains minimal added sugar.
Conclusion
Dark chocolate is not only a delicious treat, but it also has numerous health benefits, including improving female sexual function. The flavanols in dark chocolate can help to increase blood flow to the genital area, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall mood and pleasure. While it’s important to consume dark chocolate in moderation, incorporating a small amount into your diet can have significant benefits for your sexual health and overall wellbeing.
References:
- James G. Pfaus, Tod E. Kippin, Soraya Centeno, Conditioning and Sexual Behavior: A Review Hormones and Behavior, Volume 40, Issue 2, 2001, Pages 291-321 https://doi.org/10.1006/hbeh.2001.1686
- Steinberg FM, Bearden MM, Keen CL. Cocoa and chocolate flavonoids: implications for cardiovascular health. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Feb;103(2):215-23. doi: 10.1053/jada.2003.50028 . PMID: 12589329.
Disclaimer:
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