In a recent triple-blind, randomized clinical trial, researchers explored the effects of dark chocolate rich in cocoa on depression and sleep quality in menopausal women. The study, conducted in Iran, involved 60 women between the ages of 45 and 65, who were randomly assigned to either consume 78% dark chocolate (12g/day) or milk chocolate (12g/day) over an eight-week period. The primary focus of the study was to evaluate depression scores, while secondary outcomes included sleep quality and various anthropometric measurements, such as weight and BMI.
Results showed that the group consuming dark chocolate experienced a significant reduction in depression scores compared to the milk chocolate group. Specifically, the depression scores dropped by an average of 2.3 points in the dark chocolate group, with a 95% confidence interval of -3.9 to -0.8 (p = 0.003). The effect size was moderate (Cohen’s d = -0.54), indicating a meaningful improvement in mood. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of sleep quality or changes in anthropometric measures such as weight, waist circumference, or BMI.
These findings suggest that consuming dark chocolate high in cocoa might play a role in improving depression symptoms for menopausal women, though it does not appear to have a significant impact on sleep quality or body composition. The absence of improvement in sleep quality could be attributed to the complex interplay of factors influencing sleep during menopause, including hormonal fluctuations, night sweats, and stress.
The trial supports the idea that dietary interventions using natural products, such as dark chocolate, could provide an alternative or complementary approach to managing depressive symptoms in menopausal women. While the psychological benefits are promising, further research will be essential to understand the broader implications of cocoa’s effects on mood and overall health.
Interestingly, this study is part of a larger conversation surrounding menopause and its associated challenges, such as depression, sleep disorders, and weight gain. Menopausal women often seek non-pharmacological treatments to alleviate symptoms, making dark chocolate a potentially appealing option due to its polyphenol-rich composition. Cocoa’s polyphenols are known for their antioxidant properties, which might contribute to mood stabilization and overall mental well-being during menopause.
In conclusion, this trial adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that dark chocolate, particularly with high cocoa content, can positively affect mood in menopausal women. However, its effect on sleep quality and physical health measures remains inconclusive, warranting further investigation.
Read More:
Menopause: What To Take To Help Sleep
Understanding Menopause: Timing, Symptoms, and Management
Can Perimenopause Make You Feel Depressed?
