Does dark chocolate help with anxiety during perimenopause?

Dark chocolate may support the management of anxiety during perimenopause as part of a balanced, whole-foods diet. While no single food is a cure for perimenopause symptoms, certain nutrients in dark chocolate can influence the pathways involved in anxiety.

The relationship between diet and anxiety during perimenopause involves inflammation, blood sugar stability, gut health, and nutrient cofactors that your body needs for hormone processing. Dark chocolate contributes to this picture through its specific nutrient profile.

Practical approach: Include dark chocolate in your diet 2 to 3 times per week as part of a varied, anti-inflammatory eating pattern. Focus on whole foods, adequate protein (aim for 25 to 30 grams per meal), healthy fats, and plenty of fiber. Track whether your anxiety patterns shift over 4 to 6 weeks of dietary changes.

Diet changes work best alongside other strategies like regular exercise, stress management, and quality sleep. The combination tends to be more effective than any single change alone.