Study: Dark Chocolate Aids Chronic Fatigue

Treat may work by boosting brain's serotonin levels
By Colleen Barry,  Newser Staff
Posted Oct 1, 2007 3:58 AM CDT
Study: Dark Chocolate Aids Chronic Fatigue
Dark chocolate is thought to boost the brain's serotonin levels.   (KRT Photos)

A daily dose of dark chocolate noticeably improves symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, researchers have discovered. Scientists speculate that the chocolate may boost brain serotonin levels in sufferers, who reported significantly less fatigue when they ate 45 grams a day of chocolate high in cocoa content.

Dark chocolate is high in polyphenols, which have been linked to health benefits such as a reduction in blood pressure. The study involved only 10 patients, but several of them experienced dramatic improvement. Two patients were even able to return to work. (More chronic fatigue syndrome stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X