The effect of cocoa-rich products on depression, anxiety, and mood: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

In the popular imaginary, cocoa-derived products, like chocolate, represent a panacea for mood and affectivity. However, whether this is a myth or a fact has yet to be clarified. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines to investigate the effect of cocoa-derived food on depressive and anxiety symptoms, positive and negative affect. We searched Web of Knowledge^TM and PsycINFO up to April 3, 2020. After screening 761 records, we selected nine studies. Two trials evaluated the long-term effects of cocoa consumption (>1 week), two studies the short-term effects (3 days), while five studies were conducted in acute (single administration). Random-effects meta-analyses found an overall significant effect of cocoa-rich products on depressive (Hedge's <i>g</i> = -0.42, 95% CI -0.67 to -0.17) and anxiety symptoms (Hedge's <i>g</i> = -0.49, 95% CI -0.78 to -0.19). Moreover, both positive (Hedge's <i>g</i> = 0.41, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.77) and negative affect (Hedge's <i>g</i> = -0.47, 95% CI -0.91 to -0.03) significantly improved. In all meta-analyses, the effect size was medium, while heterogeneity was low. Our findings suggest that the consumption of cocoa-rich products may improve affect and mood in the short term. However, given the short duration of trials, our results cannot be generalized to long-term intake of cocoa-derived food. Cautious interpretation is also needed due to the low number of participants and studies included in the meta-analyses.