Caffeine is a stimulant that is found in coffee, tea, chocolate and soda. Caffeine can cause sleeplessness, indigestion and nervousness in sensitive people. According to the March of Dimes, pregnant women should limit caffeine to under 200 mg per day. Snacking on chocolate can easily raise caffeine levels in those wishing to lower intake. Dark chocolate contains the most caffeine with a 1.45-oz. bar containing 26 mg. A better choice is a 1.55-oz. bar of milk chocolate which has a more reasonable 9 mg.
Caffeine Defined
According to the University of Michigan Health Service, or UMHS, caffeine is a product found in plants such as coffee beans and cocoa beans. Caffeine may be added to medications such as pain relievers. Working on the central nervous system, caffeine takes effect in 15 minutes and can last for 6 hours. Increase in heart rate, body temperature and blood pressure may be caused by caffeine.
Dark Chocolate
The cocoa tree, or Theobroma cacao, produces beans which are used to produce cocoa liquor. Combined with cocoa butter, sugar and vanilla, cocoa liquor is used to make chocolate. Reducing the sugar and increasing cocoa solids results in dark chocolate. Dark chocolate has a rich taste and is used for baking and some candy, according to the UMHS. As a comparison to dark chocolate's 26 mg of caffeine, an 8-oz. cup of brewed coffee has 95 mg, and 8 oz. of brewed tea contains 47 mg.
Dark Chocolate Benefits
Dark chocolate has health benefits that milk chocolate does not. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids which are antioxidants. The oxidation of bad cholesterol or LDL is reduced when you eat dark chocolate. Serotonin levels increase in the brain after consumption of dark chocolate which may improve mood. The dark version also contains the minerals calcium, magnesium and potassium, notes the UMHS.
Caffeine Safety
No ill effects are known for caffeine consumption that is kept under 200 mg per day. However, intake of caffeine over 200 mg can have negative effects. Digestive upset and problems conceiving have been linked to regularly taking in 1,000 mg per day. Caffeine does interfere with sleep and can cause nervousness and anxiety. People with chronic health problems or taking medication should ask their doctor about consuming caffeine, advises the UMHS.
Enjoy Dark Chocolate
The UMHS recommends getting the most out of dark chocolate by eating it in small amounts and savoring the taste slowly. High calories and fat content as well as caffeine make dark chocolate a treat that needs to be eaten sparingly. Eating dark chocolate for dessert can help curb the impulse to overindulge. Dipping fresh fruit in dark chocolate makes an especially delicious snack. Purchase high-quality dark chocolate for the best results.
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