Dr. Linda Khasanova, a Russian nutrition expert, has debunked three myths about chocolate and urged people to stop considering chocolate as a harmful product. In an interview with "Lenta.ru," she described the claim that chocolate causes headaches in individuals who are not predisposed to them as a "myth." She confirms that moderate consumption can, in some cases, alleviate headaches, as it helps produce the happiness hormone—serotonin.
According to her, dark chocolate is rich in tryptophan, which is used to synthesize the happiness hormone. Consuming a few pieces of chocolate can improve mood, reduce anxiety and fatigue, enhance attention and concentration, and improve sleep quality while also helping regulate appetite.
The expert notes that contrary to common belief, chocolate does not cause weight gain or obesity. A small amount of high-quality chocolate can be an excellent treat for those monitoring their weight, as it helps reduce cravings for sweets and maintain nutritional balance. She advises ensuring that the chocolate does not contain sugar, milk, or other artificial additives, as these are difficult to label as healthy and can actually lead to weight gain.
Finally, the doctor recommends not believing the myth that chocolate harms the skin. She points out that cocoa beans contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals, which actually improve skin condition. However, she cautions against excessive consumption as it may cause skin allergies. The expert assures that consuming dark chocolate with a natural composition containing no less than 70% cocoa, made from high-quality cocoa beans, will bring only health benefits, recommending a daily intake of about 20 grams.
