Chocolate and Dopamine

Have you ever questioned yourself as to why do you enjoy eating chocolate that much, or why you associate the feeling of eating chocolate with pleasure? There is a scientific explanation for it.

Every 7th of July marks World Chocolate Day! This inspired us to celebrate this amazing creation and dedicate a blog to discuss the health benefits that chocolate produces.

1- What Are Endorphins?

 

Endorphins are in charge of reducing the perception of pain in the body, which can lead to a positive and healthy feeling. You might be asking, how do endorphins create those positive feelings in our bodies? Endorphins are neurotransmitters that help neurons communicate with one another. Hence, based on the situation, this neurotransmitter can affect the way a person feels.

2- The Link Between Chocolate and Endorphins

 

Researchers have found that dark chocolate, more specifically cocoa, can cause the brain to release endorphins, “the feel-good” chemical in our body. However, if you have a sweet tooth, there is a counterpart to it; you should differentiate between dark and milk chocolate. Cocoa is the factor behind the release of endorphins, right? So, the more milk the bar of chocolate contains, the less pure cocoa it is, hence fewer releases of endorphins in the body. So, we’re sorry to break it to you. If you want to get those good endorphins, you should consider eating more dark chocolate and less milk chocolate.

3- Other Benefits Related To Chocolate Intake

 

Guess what! Endorphins are not the only brain chemicals associated with cocoa consumption. There is more to it! Dopamine, Serotonin, and Oxytocin: all work together for a good and warm feeling.

But wait, there’s even more! Several studies showed that chocolate can help you boost your memory. People with higher cocoa intake were proven to have better signs of memory retention! So, friends, this means chocolate consumed in moderation can be beneficial for that brain of yours!

4- Chocolate And The Heart

Other studies showed that dark chocolate might protect from heart diseases. No, we’re not talking about heartbreaks, although a good bucket of chocolate ice cream would do the trick after a breakup! We’re talking about heart diseases potentially caused by diabetes and high blood pressure which might be prevented with the consumption of dark chocolate. However, don’t take it as a sign to overconsume dark chocolate. Everything in moderation is key to a healthy diet and lifestyle.

That brings us to the end of our chocolate blog! The next time you feel guilty about consuming chocolate, make sure to remember the health benefits that it provides!

So, why not treat yourself and check our Presentail’s Chocolate Collection!?