Is chocolate really good for women? Let's talk
Absolutely! Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which are known to reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and even help balance hormones. It's more than a treat; it can actually treat your body well.CAN DARK CHOCOLATE HELP WITH PMS SYMPTOMS?Yes, and it's not just a myth. Dark chocolate contains magnesium and iron, two nutrients your body craves during your period. Magnesium helps ease cramps and mood swings, while iron can help with fatigue caused by blood loss.DOES IT HELP WITH STRESS AND MOOD?You bet! Ever wonder why chocolate makes you feel better? Dark chocolate increases the production of endorphins (your brain's feel-good chemicals) and contains serotonin, a natural antidepressant. Basically, it's like a tiny edible therapist.IS IT GOOD FOR BRAIN FUNCTION?It is! The flavonoids in dark chocolate have been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, boosting memory, focus, and cognitive performance. Next time you're studying or working late, reach for a square.WHAT ABOUT SKIN AND ANTI-AGING?Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals, aka the culprits behind aging. It can even protect your skin from UV damage. So yes, that glow-up could start with chocolate.CAN IT REALLY HELP YOUR HEART?Yes, in moderation. Studies suggest that small amounts of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) can reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, and lower the risk of heart disease.WILL IT MAKE ME GAIN WEIGHT?Only if you overdo it. A few small squares a day can fit into a balanced diet. Plus, dark chocolate is more satisfying than milk chocolate, so you're less likely to binge.IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN REGULAR AND DARK CHOCOLATE?Oh, definitely. Dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content, meaning more antioxidants and less sugar. The higher the percentage (think 70% and above), the more health benefits you'll get.IS DARK CHOCOLATE ESPECIALLY BENEFICIAL FOR WOMAN?Yes. From hormone regulation to improved iron levels and mood stabilisation, dark chocolate addresses a number of health needs specific to women. Think of it as self-care in a wrapper.PEOPLE ALSO ASKED:advertisementWHAT DOES CHOCOLATE DO FOR THE FEMALE BODY?Chocolate, especially dark chocolate offers several benefits for the female body. It's rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and iron, which help:Reduce PMS symptoms (cramps, mood swings)Improve heart healthBoost mood and reduce stressSupport brain functionImprove skin and slow signs of ageingIS CHOCOLATE GOOD FOR FEMALE HORMONES?Yes! Dark chocolate can positively influence female hormones. Here's how:Magnesium helps balance estrogen and reduce PMS discomfort.It may help increase serotonin, which is a natural mood stabiliser.The flavonoids in cocoa can reduce stress, indirectly benefiting hormonal balance.So yes, a square or two of dark chocolate can be your hormone-friendly companion!IS CHOCOLATE GOOD FOR FEMALE FERTILITY?Yes, in moderation. Dark chocolate can support fertility thanks to:Antioxidants, which reduce oxidative stress (a known factor in infertility)Iron and magnesium, which support ovulation and reproductive healthMood-boosting properties, helping reduce stress, which is linked to hormonal imbalancesWhile it's not a magic fertility food, it can be part of a balanced, fertility-supportive diet.IS IT GOOD TO GIVE CHOCOLATE TO A GIRL?Absolutely, as long as it's healthy and thoughtful:advertisementIt can brighten her mood and relieve stressDark chocolate has actual health benefitsIt's a sweet gesture of care, friendship, or loveJust make sure it's appropriate for her age, health, and dietary preferences. And go for quality over quantity!FAQS ABOUT DARK CHOCOLATE FOR WOMANHOW MUCH DARK CHOCOLATE SHOULD A WOMAN EAT PER DAY?Around 1–2 small squares (20–30 grams) of 70% or higher cocoa dark chocolate is considered healthy.WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO EAT DARK CHOCOLATE?Mid-morning or afternoon is ideal. Avoid late-night indulgences if you're sensitive to caffeine.IS DARK CHOCOLATE SAFE DURING PREGNANCY?Yes, in moderation. It can improve blood flow and mood. But always check with your doctor first.CAN DARK CHOCOLATE HELP WITH MENOPAUSE?Yes! The magnesium and antioxidants may ease symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and hot flashes.SHOULD I CHOOSE ORGANIC OR FAIR TRADE DARK CHOCOLATE?If possible, yes. Organic options are free from chemicals and fair trade ensures ethical sourcing, so your body and conscience both feel good.- EndsTrending Reel
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Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Gynaecologist reveals 5 ways stress affects menstrual cycle: From heavier flow to missed periods
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News18
5 days ago
- News18
Understanding The Hormonal And Neurological Side Of Premenstrual Syndrome
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NDTV
12-08-2025
- NDTV
6 Yummy Indian Dishes That Feel Like A Warm Hug On PMS Days
There is no denying that the days leading up to your period can take a real toll on your body and your mood. You're bloated, a little cranky, and the cravings? They are more than ever! One minute you want chocolate, the next you're dreaming of buttery pav bhaji, and before you know it, you want a quick dessert. It's like your body's way of asking for comfort in edible form. Sure, you can always rustle something up in the kitchen, but honestly? On PMS days, cooking feels like running a marathon with ankle weights. That's where your favourite food delivery app can bring you some piping hot, soul-soothing dishes without you having to get out of your blanket. But some people find it beneficial to distract and cook themselves a hearty meal. Regardless of the category you fall into, nothing feels as comforting as some Indian dishes that are just too good to miss. Here are some Indian classics that taste like a hug in a bowl (or plate) and can totally turn your day around. Here Are 6 Yummy Indian Dishes That May Soothe Your PMS Symptoms 1. Dal Chawal Recipe Simple, nourishing, and feels like a warm hug for the soul, Dal-Chawal is the OG food for painful days. Fluffy white rice paired with golden, ghee-packed dal has the power to calm both your tummy and mood. Eat it alongside a crunchy papad or tangy pickle on the side, and you have got yourself a dish that's like an edible cosy sweater. Find an easy recipe for dal chawal here. 2. Rajma Chawal Recipe Slow-cooked rajma in a thick, spicy tomato curry served with rice is the kind of comfort food that doesn't just fill you up, it makes you feel wholesome. It is warm, comforting and definitely a PMS day essential. Honestly, the kind of meal that makes you sigh in relief after the first bite. Sate your rajma chawal cravings at home with this recipe. 3. Pav Bhaji Recipe Is there anyone in this world who would resist pav bhaji? Rich, buttery, and packed with carbs, pav bhaji is like your best friend that comes to cheer you on your low days with a delicious cake. Pull that pav apart, dunk it into the spicy mashed bhaji, and let the butter make you go wow. In fact, ask for extra butter. You deserve it! Here's how you can make pav bhaji at home. 4. Masala Dosa Recipe When you want something crispy, comforting, but not too heavy, masala dosa is the answer. Hot dosas filled with spicy potato filling, paired with coconut chutney and steaming sambar, give you warmth in every bite. Plus, you can eat it in bed without too much mess. Find an easy recipe for Masala Dosa here. 5. Butter Chicken Recipe There is comfort food, and then there is butter chicken. Creamy, tangy and packed with just the right amount of spice, it's pure indulgence. Pair it with piping hot naan, and you have got yourself a meal that screams comfort. Here's how you can make butter chicken at home. Don't feel like getting out of bed? Let your favourite food delivery app do the grind; you can simply order some delicious butter chicken to your doorstep in a couple of minutes! 6. Gulab Jamun PMS and sugar cravings go together like chai and pakoras, right? A warm, syrupy gulab jamun melting in your mouth is a happy ending to any rough day. Warm it up a bit and dig into its lusciousness to keep your mood swings calm. Here's how to make gulab jamun at home. Foods For PMS | What To Eat And Avoid During Periods While we can always curb our cravings with some delicious options, here are some specific foods to eat and avoid during periods. Foods To Eat In PMS: 1. Leafy Greens Vegetables like spinach, kale, and methi are packed with iron. This can help counter period-related problems and fatigue. 2. Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate is packed with magnesium, which can help ease mood swings and cramps. Plus, it is delicious, so win-win! 3. Bananas Packed with vitamin B6 and potassium, bananas can help reduce bloating and regulate mood. 4. Yoghurt Probiotics can help boost digestion and calcium in the body. This can help reduce PMS symptoms and provide relief. 5. Oily Fish Fishes like salmon and mackerel have Omega-3 that can help reduce inflammation and menstrual pain in the body. Foods To Avoid In PMS: 1. Caffeine It can worsen anxiety, irritability and even breast tenderness. 2. Salty Snacks Excess sodium can lead to water retention and even more bloating. 3. Sugary Drinks Snacks packed with sugar can cause energy spikes followed by crashes. This makes mood swings worse. 4. Processed Foods Processed foods are packed with unhealthy fats and additives. These can make your PMS symptoms worse. 5. Excess Dairy For some, too much dairy can worsen bloating and cramps. Make sure to avoid it if you fall in this category. Drinks To Help Manage PMS 1. Ginger Tea Ginger tea has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can ease cramps and nausea. 2. Chamomile Tea Drinking chamomile tea helps relax muscles and promote better sleep. 3. Warm Lemon Water It hydrates and aids digestion. Plus, warm lemon water helps reduce bloating. 4. Coconut Water Packed with electrolytes, coconut water can help combat fatigue and dehydration. 5. Haldi Doodh Made using turmeric, haldi doodh has anti-inflammatory properties that are perfect before bed. So, now you have it! Order these foods to curb your cravings during PMS!
