Driving Naari Programme launched in Chandigarh
Do you have a habit of starting your day with a bit of caffeine in the mix and end it with a piece of dark chocolate? Many people incorporate these two into their diet. While one is considered junk food and the other an addiction, there are potential benefits attached to both foods. However, coffee and chocolate are always compared with each other, thanks to the similarities in flavour.
Nutritionist Aakriti Arora says, “Both coffee and chocolate have high amounts of antioxidants and are rich in caffeine. Both of them hosts many positive effects on one’s health when considered in the right amounts, at the right time and in the right quantities.” Let us first see what each of these ingredients contain and their health benefits.
Health Benefits Of Coffee
Let’s take a look at our all-time favourite beverage: coffee. Various studies have found that coffee consumers have a lower long-term risk of several major diseases. As per the nutritionist, “Coffee improves one’s energy levels due to its high caffeine content. Many controlled studies in humans show that coffee improves various aspects of brain function, including memory, mood, vigilance, reaction times and general mental function. It also improves your metabolic rate by up to 10% and aids in fat loss. When taken as a pre-workout, coffee can increase adrenaline levels and release fatty acids from one’s fat tissues leading to significant improvements in physical performance. Not only this, but our dear coffee is also in vitamin B complex, Manganese and Potassium. Coffee protects against liver damage too! The risk of developing cirrhosis, a condition in which your liver is largely replaced by scar tissue, is also lowered by regular coffee consumption.”
She further explained that coffee is high in antioxidants, and most people consume more antioxidants from coffee than from fruits and vegetables combined. To top it off, this simple beverage can help to alleviate depression and improve one’s mood.
Health Benefits Of Chocolate
Miss Arora explains that chocolate is a delicious treat, which is often consumed with copious amounts of sugar, cream, refined flour and fat. “Though dark chocolate is rich in fibre, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, and a few other minerals, its benefits don’t reach us because of the aforementioned additives. When consumed in its raw form – Cocoa Nibs – or slightly processed form – 98% to 99% Dark Chocolate – it has many benefits known to mankind. Organic Cocoa Powder and dark chocolate have a wide variety of powerful antioxidants, as much as our dear coffee. Chocolate not only mends heartbreak but also improves the blood flows in our arteries.”
Further explaining the benefits of chocolate, she mentioned that it also reduces LDL (bad cholesterol) susceptibility to oxidative damage while boosting HDL (good cholesterol) and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Dark chocolate contains substances like caffeine and theobromine, which increase brain function by increasing blood flow to the brain.
Coffee Vs Chocolate
Now coming to the question of which one is healthier for you, the Delhi-based nutritionist said they both are healthy. “Depending upon the benefits you are looking for, you can choose either of them. You can also include both of these powerful antioxidants in your diet in moderation to get the maximum benefits. But do remember, coffee and chocolate are only going to benefit you when consumed in the correct manner, i.e., without the extra sugar, cream and everything processed!”
