Chocolate is loved by all. After all, it relieves stress and induces a feeling of joy. But have you ever wondered why a bite of dark chocolate instantly lifts up your mood? Or why does it reduce stress? Well, we might have an answer for this. It contains various compounds that can change brain chemistry. Read on to know all about it here.
1. Chocolates Are Loaded With Endorphins
Dark chocolate has the natural ability to stimulate endorphin production which acts as a natural mood enhancer. Chocolate contains a compound called phenylethylamine (PEA), which triggers the release of endorphins in the brain at the very first bite. And it is these “feel-good” hormones that instill a sense of happiness in a person.
2. Chocolate Reduces Stress Through Serotonin
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating one’s mood and is associated with feelings of contentment. Chocolate contains tryptophan, an amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin production. That is why one bite of chocolate makes one less stressed as serotonin helps in soothing the nerves and promotes a sense of calm.
3. Chocolate Works As A Mood Elevator
As stated earlier, chocolate has a compound known as phenylethylamine (PEA). This compound even acts as a mood elevator. Often referred to as a “love chemical,” PEA is associated with feelings of excitement and attraction.
4. Chocolate Relieves Anxiety
Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in the regulation of stress and anxiety. Moderate consumption of dark chocolate can help provide a long-lasting sense of relaxation, helping one manage day-to-day stress.
5. Chocolate Has Emotional Association
Our brains form positive emotional associations with certain food items, and chocolate is one of them. It has a deep-rooted connection with nostalgia. The familiar taste, and texture of chocolate can make one happy, leading to an overall positive mood.
Consuming chocolate is often associated with pleasure and indulgence but it has some other benefits too.
Other than these, dark chocolate can even help prevent heart disease, lower the risk of stroke, may improve cognition, prevent memory loss, improve blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Along with these benefits, chocolate is even good for gut health. If you are working to lose weight, then you may want to indulge in this dark brown sweet every now and then as it can help with your weight loss.
Other than these, dark chocolate fights free radicals and may help in cancer prevention. And since, these chocolates are full of iron, copper, magnesium, and manganese along with many other compounds, they are even good for your skin. Dark chocolate is also hailed as a cholesterol-lowering food. Few studies have shown that consuming these chocolates can send good cholesterol up and bad cholesterol down.
So, if you or your child are feeling low, grab that bar of dark chocolate and take a bite, and you will feel better. However, consume the chocolate in moderate amounts.
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