Study: Dark Chocolate Reduces Fatigue

Dark chocolate may reduce fatigue, according to researchers from Hull York Medical School. In a pilot study reported on BBC News, it was found that patients who ate dark chocolate with high cocoa content had less fatigue than those who ate white chocolate that had been dyed brown. The 10 patients who participated in the study received a daily dose of 45 grams of dark chocolate or white chocolate dyed to resemble the dark chocolate for 2 months. All of the study participants had one month off before being given the other type of chocolate for 2 months.

The patients who consumed dark chocolate reported significantly less fatigue. When they stopped eating the dark chocolate, the patients again reported more fatigue. Researchers explained that dark chocolate is high in polyphenols which appear to improve serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin levels have been linked to chronic fatigue syndrome. While it definitely seems like a harmless thing to try, researchers remind us that it's important to consume dark chocolate in moderation to avoid unwanted weight gain.

Related Resources:

• 10 Ways to Fight Fatigue
• I'm Tired of Being Tired
• How to Manage Your Energy
• 7 Steps to Managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Natural Treatments for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

~ By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com Guides to Arthritis / Osteoarthritis

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