(HealthyResearch.com) – The annoying tickle of a hacking, nagging cough can be impossible to ignore! It occurs with most respiratory illnesses, but sometimes it can happen out of the blue. Getting rid of the constant irritation is a priority. Sometimes cough medicines and suppressants aren’t enough.
That’s where chocolate comes in. In a recent UK study, participants reported finding relief from this sweet indulgence that many of us enjoy frequently.
Why Chocolate?
Many people crave chocolate and succumb to the temptation all the time. So why does it not target coughs and scratchy throats before they become a problem? The key is a concentrated version of it.
Chocolate contains theobromine, an alkaloid found in cocoa concentrate. It was used effectively in treating and suppressing a cough in both humans and animals. Within the study, up to 1,000mg of theobromine was used to treat coughs. A one-ounce serving of unsweetened dark chocolate contains about 450mg. So eating two servings a day can deliver a reasonable dose.
Not All Chocolates Are the Same
The best way to get concentrated cocoa is to buy it in a bar or powder, but the taste is very bitter. Instead, purchase lightly sweetened chocolate that will give you the same effect. Look for bars with:
- Low sugar content
- Few additives
- No preservatives
- High cacao content
Choosing bars that are in the high 90% cacao range will give you the best chance of fighting off an unsettling cough.
No Excuse to Go on a Candybar Binge
Unfortunately, treating your cough with chocolate is not an excuse to go on a binge and eat 10 chocolate bars in a day. We still need to consume chocolate in moderation. And remember, the lower the cacao amount, the higher the sugar content, potentially leading to high blood glucose and an increased risk for cavities.
Always Talk To Your Doctor First
If you have a cough lasting a few days or accompanied by things like shortness of breath or a fever, see your doctor right away. Your healthcare provider may be able to give you a proper diagnosis and create a treatment plan that might help with a full recovery. Be sure to ask if it’s okay to add a bit of chocolate into your treatment regimen.
Chocolate is a favorite treat for many people, and more research is showing it has a lot of incredible health benefits. Next time you get a cold, be sure to have a decent amount of this tasty snack stashed away. Sit back, relax and indulge. It might help boost your mood and get rid of that pesky cough.
~Here’s to Your Health & Safety!
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