Give Your Kids Chocolate!

I have to admit, I am a chocoholic. It’s in my DNA, passed on from mother to daughter. And now another admission- Even though I have been gluten-, dairy-free, and processed sugar-free for years, if someone gifts me with Godiva chocolate, all rules cease.

Now, the problem with Godiva chocolate is not the chocolate per se. It’s the high sugar content and the dairy. Dark 80% chocolate is actually GOOD for you. And it’s even important for your child.

Why? Because chocolate contains magnesium and flavanols.

Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency is shockingly common among children exhibiting signs of ADHD symptoms. Magnesium, a vital mineral, plays a role in over 300 enzyme systems, igniting cellular activity throughout the body. When magnesium levels are inadequate, it has a profound impact on the energy source, known as ATP, which powers every single cell in the body. Consequently, the regulation of blood sugar, immune system function, and brain activity are compromised.

Magnesium is not merely a bystander in the intricate dance of brain function—it plays a crucial role in the formation of neurotransmitters. Specifically, it influences attention-regulating dopamine and mood-regulating serotonin. Moreover, low levels of magnesium impair the function of glutamate receptors, which facilitate the movement of neurotransmitters in the brain. The consequences of magnesium deficiency manifest in various symptoms, including poor concentration, irritability, anxiety, depression, mood swings, fatigue, sleep problems, and constipation.

Addressing magnesium deficiency is crucial for children with ADHD symptoms, as it directly affects their ability to concentrate, regulate emotions, and perform at their best academically and socially. By recognizing and addressing this deficiency, you can significantly improve the quality of life for your child and enhance his overall well-being.

Flavanols

The second brain-boosting ingredient found in chocolate and cocoa is called flavanols. But what exactly are flavanols and why are they important? Let’s break it down in simpler terms.

The brain is made up of billions of neurons that communicate with each other using chemical and electrical signals called neurotransmitters. These signals operate at different frequencies depending on the state of the brain. Think of it like ripples on the water’s surface after throwing stones. Brainwaves reflect this electrical activity and can give us insights into a person’s mental state and specific brain functions. Some brainwaves are more active when we’re mentally engaged, while others dominate during sleep. The balance of these brainwaves affects the ability to concentrate, learn, and stay organized.

The four most commonly measured brain waves are:

Delta: Improves memory, promotes deep relaxation, and aids in the release of growth hormones.

Theta: Enhances creativity, relaxes the body, and connects with intuition and the subconscious mind.

Alpha: Promotes relaxation, reduces nervousness and anxiety, boosts creative thinking, and represents the state where performance is at its peak.

Beta: Increases alertness, and improves focus, concentration, problem-solving abilities, and self-confidence.

Children with ADHD symptoms often have an excess of slow-moving theta waves, which makes it difficult for them to focus and maintain attention. They also tend to have fewer fast-moving beta waves, which are crucial for focus, problem-solving, and self-confidence. Excessive delta waves are also associated with ADHD and can affect brain performance.

Research has shown that OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidins), which are natural active substances found in plants and belong to the group of flavonols, can have significant benefits for attention. They effectively treat symptoms like lack of focus, distractibility, poor concentration, weak memory, and disorganization.

Cocoa products and chocolate, in particular, are known to be rich sources of flavonoids, specifically flavonols. These flavonoids have been found to have neuromodulatory and neuroprotective effects on the brain. When consumed, the absorbed flavonoids penetrate and accumulate in the brain regions involved in learning and memory.

So, it’s clear that magnesium and flavanols present in cocoa and chocolate can positively influence brain function, particularly in areas related to cognition and behavior.

Action Steps

1. Embrace Dark Chocolate:

Dark chocolate, with a cocoa content of 60% or higher, is an excellent source of magnesium and flavanols. It offers a delightful way to supplement your child’s diet with this essential mineral. Choose high-quality dark chocolate brands that prioritize purity and nutrient content.

2. Serve Magnesium-Rich Foods: 

In addition to dark chocolate, explore other magnesium-rich foods to incorporate into your child’s diet. These include leafy green vegetables (such as spinach and kale), nuts and seeds (almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds), legumes, whole grains, and avocados.

3. Consider a Magnesium Supplement:

My #1 choice is Mag.Matrix LIQUID BY CYTOMATRIX because it is well absorbed.

Addressing magnesium deficiency is essential for children with ADHD symptoms. By recognizing the impact of magnesium on brain function and incorporating dark chocolate and magnesium-rich foods into the diet, you can provide the necessary support for your child’s overall well-being. So go ahead and embrace the benefits of dark chocolate, and let its delicious taste and brain-boosting properties bring joy and nourishment to your child’s life.

Remember, a little indulgence in dark chocolate can go a long way in supporting your child’s brain health and helping them thrive.