The black chocolate It is a healthy snack compared to other types of chocolate, thanks to its high content of solid cocoa, antioxidants (flavanols) and less extra sugar.
Despite the benefits of black chocolate, mainly for heart health, consuming at night, especially just before we sleep, can have a negative impact on our sleep quality.
Black chocolate has more caffeine than other chocolate species. Although not as high as in coffee, the amount of caffeine in black chocolate can affect our nervous system. A typical portion of about 30 grams of black chocolate may contain from 20 to 40 mg of caffeine, depending on cocoa content.
Caffeine is a natural stimulant that increases alertness and can delay sleep onset, causing nervousness.
For people who are sensitive to caffeine, even this small amount can cause insomnia or lead to restless sleep.
Except, however, by the caffeineblack chocolate also contains theobromine, a compound that is naturally found in cocoa seeds. Theobromine has a similar effect to caffeine (though to a lesser extent) and may increase heart rate, causing light stimulation.
This process can be beneficial during the morning wake up, however, it is likely that it will produce the opposite effect at night when our body is trying to relax to enjoy a relaxing sleep.
Another reason why we should not consume black chocolate at night is about sugar levels. In general, black chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate.
However, consuming sugar before bedtime can cause sharp fluctuations in energy levels, making it difficult to relax, resulting in the possibility of night awakening.
In addition, consumption chocolate – which is oily- before bedtime can cause indigestion, especially in people who often have problems with their digestive system, treating gastroesophageal reflux.
In addition, to digest fatty foods our body needs more time and energy, which can prevent us from relaxing and resting before we fall asleep.