Dark chocolate is a healthier alternative to milk chocolate snacks and candy bars. Although no studies have been performed on the specific effects of dark chocolate on the gallbladder, the high quantities of antioxidants, phytochemicals and flavonoids may offer peripheral benefits to the body’s digestive system and surrounding organs. For best results, keep your dark chocolate intake to a moderate amount to prevent excess fat or caffeine intake.
Definition
Dark chocolate is essentially chocolate in its original form prior to adding milk solids. According to the American Diabetes Association, dark chocolate has been linked to a variety of health benefits, such as improved brain function as well as reduced cholesterol and blood pressure. The antioxidant properties alone make dark chocolate a beneficial foodstuff for reducing the effects of free radicals in the body, which can be linked to a variety of health conditions, including arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disorders, gallstones and some cancers.
Phytochemicals
According to studies cited by the “New York Times,” foods such as dark chocolate, kale and broccoli contain phytochemicals that may offer benefits to various organs and body functions. Although more evidence is needed in order to make a definitive claim, the type of phytochemical known as polyphenols are heart protective and may offer significant benefits to the lungs, intestines and other surrounding organs. Non-human studies have linked polyphenols to suppressed tumor growth and anti-inflammatory effects, both of which may peripherally benefit the gallbladder.
Flavanoids, Prebiotics and Gut Flora
A study published in a 2011 issue of “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” suggests that the flavanol-rich compounds of dark chocolate and raw cocoa products may have a significant benefit on the growth of select microflora in the stomach and intestines. In other words, eating dark chocolate may offer prebiotic benefits that can improve your digestion. Since the gallbladder is commonly used to supply bile to aid digestion, the increased presence of beneficial bacteria and microflora may help reduce the strain on the gallbladder during digestion.
Safety Concerns
Like other fatty foods, chocolate may cause contractions in the gallbladder when taken in large quantities, potentially worsening the pain symptoms of gallstones or gallbladder disease. For best results, talk to your doctor about the proper dosage and preparation for adding dark chocolate to your diet, and always keep your caffeine intake below 200 to 300 milligrams per day.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Are Chocolate And Coffee Good For You?
- New York Times: Vitamin B12 - In-Depth Report
- The American Journal Of Clinical Nutrition: Prebiotic Evaluation Of Cocoa-Derived Flavanols In Healthy Humans By Using A Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind, Crossover Intervention Study
- The University of Maryland Medical Center: Gallbladder Disease
- Lacaroscopic Gallbladder Surgery: Dark Chocolate
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