Athletic Performance and Chocolate

  Written by Alyce Garfman on Mar 25, 2009 2:18 pm

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In recent years, chocolate seems to have come full circle. Chocolate originated thousands of years ago as an energy lifting, sustenance giving drink. Eventually it was transformed into the unhealthy indulgence it has been in modern times. Now it is once again being touted as a "healthy" food.

Scientists have long known that the cacao bean contains a variety of compounds and nutrients that can benefit athletic performance. In fact, a recent study from the University of Indiana found that chocolate milk provided better recovery results for cyclists than did standard athletic carbohydrate drinks. And many in the running, biking and racing worlds are now enthusiastically embracing chocolate milk as their recovery drink of choice.

So what's in chocolate that can assist an every-day athlete?

B VIAMINS: Needed for a variety of metabolic processes, including energy production, these are crucial for any athlete.

COPPER, CALCIUM, ZINC AND MAGNESIUM: These minerals are involved in the maintenance of healthy musculoskeletal and cardiovascular system, as well as energy production.

FLAVONOIDS: This class of antioxidant polyphenols possesses potent freeradical fighting abilities. This is important as exercise increases the oxidative damage occurring in the body, which contributes to inflammation and muscle soreness.

VITAMINS C AND E: Like flavonoids, these vitamins are potent antioxidants, and they support immune function and healthy inflammation levels.

AMINO ACIDS: Cocoa contains several amino acids (including leucine), which are known to be essential for the physical demands of athletic activities. Amino acids contribute to muscle growth and repair, as well as maintenance of the musculoskeletal system.

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