Is Chocolate for Pre-Workout Good? (Explained by an Expert)

Having recommended dark milk chocolate to my clients as a pre-workout snack, I've observed a noticeable reduction in muscle damage among those who are more intensely training. This aligns with studies suggesting its benefits for elite athletes.

A study on healthy adults aged 30-45 showed that their levels of antioxidant agents increased after consuming dark chocolate for 30 days.

Their oxidative tension and signs of muscle damage also decreased [5].

These journal findings suggest that consuming natural antioxidants from foods like natural cocoa powder and red wine may be an easy, affordable, and delectable way to lower levels of exercise-related muscle damage.

By incorporating natural antioxidants found in foods like dark milk chocolate, you can enjoy a delicious and affordable strategy to minimize exercise-related muscle damage.

Choosing the perfect pre-workout snack can contribute to a more productive and satisfying exercise session.

2. Cocoa Increases Blood Flow

Through both personal use and observation of my clients, I've seen how chocolate can promote healthy blood flow and enhance cardiovascular function, especially during workouts. This benefit is particularly noticeable in exercises that demand high cardiovascular engagement.

That's because dark chocolate contains compounds known as flavonoids, which have numerous health benefits for the cardiovascular system.

These include promoting healthy blood flow and maintaining ideal levels of cholesterol and blood pressure [6].

"Flavanol occurs naturally in higher amounts in dark chocolates, which have significant antioxidant properties. However, consuming large unnecessary amounts of even the darkest of chocolates might have a detrimental effect on your body's composition"

- Susan Kitchen, Certified Dietician

Since blood transports oxygen and nutrients to muscle while also eliminating waste molecules like carbon dioxide and lactic acid, efficient blood flow to the muscles during and after exercise may maximize performance and post-exercise recovery fuel [7].

There have been claims that cocoa has inflammation-relieving qualities.

It contains a variety of phytochemicals, such as polyphenols, which have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and a favorable impact on pain [8].

4.  Reduced Coronary Artery Diseases

Regular milk chocolate consumption is linked to a lower cardiovascular and coronary heart disease risk.

It most likely happens because the molecules in cocoa make blood less "sticky" and aid in preventing arterial plaque buildup.

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These same substances are also thought to lessen the risk of stroke [9].

Consuming dark chocolate may increase insulin sensitivity and lower levels of proteins linked to inflammation in the body, which may lower the chance of developing diabetes [10].

6. Relieves Stress

If you eat chocolate in moderation, it might not be as harmful to you as you may have thought.

According to studies, eating one ounce of dark chocolate every day for two weeks helped anxious people's cortisol levels and mood [11].

Working out when you're relaxed allows you to maximize your output.

Dark chocolate makes you feel fuller longer than lighter-colored chocolates because the fiber in the cocoa bean improves satiety.

According to research, dark chocolate can reduce appetites for fatty, sweet, and salty foods [12].

If you want to lose or maintain a healthy, stable weight, this is a positive feedback loop.