Top 10 Chocolate Products Highest in Theobromine

Top 10 Chocolate Products Highest in Theobromine

Theobromine is an alkaloid chemical primarily found in the cocoa plant, though also to a lesser extent in tea leaves and the cola nut. Cocoa and chocolate are the main foods high in theobromine.

Theobromine acts somewhat like caffeine in the body and can be considered a stimulant. (1,2)

Theobromine in moderate amounts also improves mood and lowers blood pressure. (2) Cocoa and chocolate are also very high in potassium, adding to their potential to help lower blood pressure.

Healthy chocolate products high in theobromine include cocoa powder, baking chocolate, and dark chocolate. Less desirable sources include semisweet chocolate, chocolate candy, chocolate wafers, and hot chocolate mixes.

There is no set daily value or adequate intake for theobromine, however, 250mg is a good daily target for adults, as higher amounts can potentially lead to negative changes in mood. (3) Also, avoid giving chocolate to dogs and cats, as it is toxic to them. (4)

Below are the top 10 chocolate products highest in theobromine.

Chocolates High in Theobromine

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Data Sources and References

  1. Lieberman HR, Tharion WJ, Shukitt-Hale B, Speckman KL, Tulley R. Effects of theobromine and caffeine on mood and vigilance Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2002 Nov;164(3):250-61. doi: 10.1007/s00213-002-1217-9. Epub 2002 Sep 5. 12424548
  2. Lieberman HR, Tharion WJ, Shukitt-Hale B, Speckman KL, Tulley R. Differential contributions of theobromine and caffeine on mood, psychomotor performance and blood pressure Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2002 Nov;164(3):250-61. doi: 10.1007/s00213-002-1217-9. Epub 2002 Sep 5. 12424548
  3. Shively CA, Tarka SM Jr. The relevance of theobromine for the beneficial effects of cocoa consumption Prog Clin Biol Res. 1984;158:149-78. 6396642
  4. Becker J, Brutlag AG, Hovda L, Rendahl A, Tart KM. Chocolate ingestion in dogs: 156 events (2015-2019) J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio). 2023 May-Jun;33(3):348-353. doi: 10.1111/vec.13282. Epub 2023 Mar 12. 36908194
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