It is not surprising that dark chocolate can give numbers of benefits to one’s health. The reason behind this is that dark chocolate is fully loaded with essential minerals. Aside from that, it also contains high amounts of polyphenols or antioxidants.
According to research, the incredible amount of polyphenols in chocolate can contribute to the lowering of inflammation, risk of cardiovascular disease, and assist in the memory function.
Yet, this kind of research also comes along with controversy. Meaning, it needs more study before drawing out conclusions. However, companies begin to market chocolate as a healthy product due to this research.
Dark Chocolate in Moderate Amount
In addition to the above-mentioned contents of dark chocolate, high levels of fat and calorie are also in the list. Generally, dark chocolate is advantageous for one’s health, however, it doesn’t mean that it should be overeaten. Similar to other food groups, moderate consumption of dark chocolate can be a part of a balanced meal. The suggested daily consumption of dark chocolate is about 6-7 grams that’s why we can’t get enough of it.
Meanwhile, dark chocolate together with cocoa products includes certain levels of an antinutrient substance known as oxalates. Oxalates play a role in kidney stones formation. The appearance of this substance is commonly known to occur on spinach, parsley, beets, and rhubarb.
Oxalates in Dark Chocolate
Chocolate is known as high oxalate food. If one is at risk for kidney stones, it is highly recommended that dark chocolate or other oxalate-rich food consumption must be in combination with calcium-rich foods. The role of calcium is to bind to soluble oxalates during the process of digestion.
This binding phase results in the creation of oxalates in its insoluble form before its absorption into the bloodstream. But, milk products hinder the effects of polyphenols present in chocolate. Meaning, chocolate consumption due to antioxidant effect while consuming milk at the same time to restrict oxalate absorption may reduce the antioxidant benefits of chocolate.
Oxalates in Kidney Stones Formation
Once soluble oxalates are absorbed and then accumulate in the kidneys afterwards, the binding with calcium occurs. This phase leads to the formation of oxalate crystals of calcium. Through the urine, the elimination of such crystals happens.
On the other hand, if the oxalate crystals present in the urine have extremely high levels, the chance of stone formation of the calcium oxalate form is very high. These formed stones are known as the mostly occurred stones of the kidney.
With this regard, many people are asking for what to drink for kidney stones? Is dark chocolate drink in or out in the food list for people with kidney stones?