Easter is the time of year for friends, family and slight over indulging. Chocolate is a major weakness of mine and Easter eggs are no exception. But, is chocolate really that bad for you? Read on and rid yourself of the Easter guilt.
Recent studies have found that chocolate may improve your brain power and mental health. The New England Journal of Medicine in 2012, established a loose relationship between that of countries with high Nobel Prize winners and country’s with high chocolate intake. Whilst I’d like to believe chocolate is increasing my intelligence, unfortunately there was no strong cause-effect relationship established. Ever wondered why chocolate makes you feel so good? It stimulates the release of endorphins, which is a natural hormone produced by the brain that generates a sense of well-being. Furthermore, chocolate contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid needed by the brain to produce serotonin. Serotonin is a mood modulating neurotransmitter that gives us the feeling of happiness. (Benton et al, 1999)
Chocolate might actually do more than just satisfy your sweet tooth—it could offer health benefits as well. A study published in The BMJ in December 2024 found that participants who consumed at least five ounces of any type of chocolate per week had a 10% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who rarely consumed chocolate. Notably, dark chocolate had an even more significant impact; those consuming at least five servings per week showed a 21% lower risk of type 2 diabetes. These benefits are attributed to the polyphenols in cocoa, which improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
Additionally, a 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that regular chocolate consumption is associated with a reduced risk of cardiometabolic events, including coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, stroke, and diabetes.
Dark chocolate has also been praised for its cardiovascular benefits. It contains flavanols, which act as antioxidants and help improve blood vessel function, reduce blood clotting, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
So yes, a square of dark chocolate a day could keep the cardiologist away. But beware—many chocolates are high in sugar and fat, which can negate the benefits. For the best health boost, choose dark chocolate with over 80% cocoa and minimal added sugar.
Believe it or not, chocolate milk has been gaining popularity as a post-workout recovery drink. Research shows it’s an affordable alternative to commercial sports drinks, offering a similar carbohydrate-to-protein ratio (4:1). It also provides fluid and sodium—two crucial components for effective recovery.
For best results, drink chocolate milk immediately after a workout, and again two hours later to help reduce muscle damage and speed up recovery.
If you love chocolate as much as we do, you may have noticed a sting at the checkout. The cost of cocoa has skyrocketed—up a whopping 307% over the past five years. Unsurprisingly, this might be taking a toll on our collective sweet tooth, as chocolate consumption has dropped nearly 6% over the same period. It’s a sobering reminder that our beloved treat is not just a personal indulgence, but part of a global market influenced by climate, supply chains, and demand.
As mentioned earlier, it’s all about the type and amount of chocolate you consume. The health benefits stem from cocoa—yet many chocolates are highly processed and diluted with sugar and fat, significantly reducing the concentration of beneficial flavanols. Plus, the added calories can contribute to weight gain if not burned off.
This Easter, enjoy your chocolate guilt-free. Some types offer real health perks—just remember to choose high-cocoa, low-sugar varieties and indulge in moderation. While rising cocoa prices might make each bite feel a little more precious, it’s all the more reason to savour it slowly and mindfully. Pair that with a healthy, active lifestyle and you’ve got yourself a pretty sweet deal.
After 15 years of international competitive Taekwondo, Adele sustained several injuries. “I was always so fascinated by how the human body functions and heals – seemingly myotherapy was the perfect fit. An enthusiast about health, fitness and being the best version of yourself is a key factor”.
Adele feels that analysing the main components of people’s everyday lifestyles and interests allows her to identify and provide specialised ways for a specific individual to help aid in strengthening, rehabilitating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Adele enjoys working with people “to help get them back to the activities they love”.
Adele executes this through a “hands-on approach”, which includes trigger point therapy, dry needling, cupping, myofascial release and treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Adele is a firm believer on educating her clients about their condition and what their recovery process will entail to improve their ability to manage, maintain and overcome their injuries.
Adele has worked with NICA (National Institute of Circus Australia) and amateur basketball, netball and football leagues across Melbourne.
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