Selfcare Sunday - Dark Chocolate and Testosterone

The last article we talked about just some of the benefits that dark chocolate has on men. I wanted to go a little deeper into this and perhaps this is a slightly more TABOO subject but dark chocolate and testosterone is also another vitality important area to look into for how it improves male bodies biologically…

Testosterone in a mans body regulates their sex drive (libido), bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass and overall strength, not to mention the production of red blood cells and sperm. As you may well know, it plays a key role in the development of the male reproductive tissues such as testes and prostate along with the growth of body hair and can affect men's moods…

Testosterone is also produced in women's ovaries however in much smaller doses, and as this is a segment on male benefits for dark chocolate then the women's side will be parked until the next article!

Having a low testosterone level in a male, also known as low T Levels can produce a multiple of symptoms which include:

• Decreased Sex Drive
• Less Energy
• Weight gain
• Feelings of depression
• Moodiness
• Low self esteem
• Less body hair
• Thinner bones

Naturally testosterone decreases with age but did you know that dark chocolate can help boost and increase levels in your testosterone.

As dark chocolate is packed with flavanols, it has an effective role in cardiovascular diseases, it also reduces oxidative stress which causes testosterone deficiency, therefore consuming dark chocolate can boost testosterone levels and sperm production. With the number of flavonoids and other antioxidants found in this humble plant cacao, it can improve testicular function. 

The higher the amount of dark chocolate the better the increase of testosterone as there is more cacao in dark chocolate, this is the best chocolate to consume. Whether its drink or eaten, the benefits are the same.

Dark chocolate, cacao nibs (so our booster bar) would be ideal to help improve T levels as they are also high in magnesium and flavonoid antioxidants, both of which are main contributors to increasing T Levels. In addition, flavonoids are plant compounds that have powerful antioxidant and anti inflammatory effects on the body..

Dark chocolate is a natural Viagra, as it helps men get a stronger erection as well as helping the body release hormones such as serotonin and dopamine to boost sex drive further.

Fun Fact: It is also a great one for body builders as it helps improve recovery time after workouts and increase energy levels

FAQs

What is the benefit of dark chocolate?

Dark chocolate is packed full with nutrients that can positively affect your mind body health. Made from the seed of the cacao tree, it's one of the best sources of antioxidants you can find.

What is the best time to have dark chocolate?

It is all down to personal experience on how you have your chocolate, the quality and cacao . Personally I have first thing in the morning to replace my coffee and if I need an energy boost in the afternoon. It is great post exercise and work out, as it helps maintain energy levels steadily.

Can you sleep if you have dark chocolate in the evening?

Many people have found the cocoa flavanols found in dark chocolate can help to improve sleep quality and duration as it promotes melatonin in our system to help with slumber. The flavanols are thought to affect the body's production of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and sleep. So have your cup of cocoa for a great night sleep.