Chocolate as Cough Medication?
October 11, 2013
Around 300 participants that suffered from a persistent cough took part in a clinical trial at 13 National Health Service hospitals in the UK. They were given theobromine, the naturally occurring chemical found in chocolate, twice a day for 14 days. 60% of the participants reported some sort of relief.
Research has it that a daily dose of dark chocolate may come with sufficient amounts of active compound to treat a chronic cough, emphasis on the word ‘treat’. It did not cure the cough, considering symptoms did return once treatment was ended.
The amount of the theobromine used in the trial was a single dose of 1,000 mg. Unsweetened dark chocolate has about 450 mg per ounce, sweet dark chocolate around 150 mg, and milk chocolate about 60 mg. "This new capsule we are using seems very effective," Principal investigator Professor Alyn Morice, head of the Hull Cough Clinic, said.
"Eating a bar of dark chocolate a day which has high levels of the compound may also be effective for people with diagnosed persistent cough, although eating chocolate on a daily basis may have other unwanted effects, including weight gain and so on," Morice said.
Previous research done at the National Heart and Lung Institute has shown that theobromine tends to block the action of the sensory nerves, and that mechanism halts the cough reflex. It was said to be more effective as compared to codeine.
Apparently, it’s still best to consult your doctor for any health issues. But chocolate, darling, you never fail to amaze humanity. What’s your take on this? Hit the comment box below!
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