Theobromine
What is Theobromine?
Theobromine is mainly found in chocolate and is a bitter alkaloid from the cacao plant. You can also find Theobromine in the kola nut, guarana berry, yerba mate, and tea plant leaves. Theobromine is a diuretic, stimulant and vasodilator. There are many benefits to Theobromine such as cognitive enhancement, decrease blood pressure, weight loss and fat loss.
One benefit to Theobromine is it is similar to caffeine in which it can help energize you and increase alertness, focus and concentration as a stimulant. It does not stimulate the nervous system the same as Caffeine does. Those who are bodybuilding may find it helpful for increasing their workout intensity. The mild stimulant effect may help with decreasing fat. (1)
Another benefit of Theobromine is the effect on the body for weight loss and fat loss. A study found that weight loss could occur from drinking purple tea that contains Theobromine. The research showed that it could help with an increase in fat metabolism and suppressing fat absorption. Since we know that Theobromine is a mild stimulant and diuretic it may increase energy for activity and decrease water weight. (2) One study showed that an improved insulin sensitivity from Theobromine may help with weight loss in individuals as well as decreasing blood pressure. (3)
Theobromine has some relaxing effects. One relaxing effect that may be beneficial is that it may help lower ones blood pressure since the blood vessels will dilate also known as vasodilation. One study showed a decrease in blood pressure with 700mg of Theobromine within an hour of ingesting in the 24 subjects. (4) Another trial saw a decrease in blood pressure 2 hours after ingesting Theobromine and those that took the placebo instead did not see any changes. (5)
Theobromine could cause effects including anxiety, restlessness, loss of normal appetite, sleeping problems, rapid heart rate, trembling in body, nausea and vomiting. When consumed in larger doses nausea, headache and tachycardia are the bigger side effects.
