Why Are Chocolates Such Good Mood Lifters

We've all heard that chocolate makes us happy, but what exactly is it about this sinful treat that makes us feel better? We dug a little deeper and discovered why this ancient treat makes us feel the way we do.

Chocolate, whether liquid, solid, milk or dark, is universally acknowledged to make us happy. Chocolate is like an edible hug. It makes us happy in every way. Chocolate is the first snack food we reach for when we're sad or upset, whether we realise it or not. The cocoa bean and its delicious by-products make us feel happier for a chemical reason.

1. Phenylethylamine

Phenylethylamine, sometimes known as the "love drug," which is found in chocolate releases dopamine. Dopamine, commonly referred to as the "feel-good hormone," is the chemical in our body that causes all happy sensations. Phenylethylamine, a substance found in chocolate, has been shown to have positive effects on the human brain. It is believed that phenylethylamine raises our pulse rate, producing the same effect that people experience when they fall in love.

2. Theobromine

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system's function. Chocolate and cocoa include theobromine, which lowers blood pressure and protects the health of your heart. Because cacao beans are high in theobromine, dark chocolate has more of it than white chocolate.

3. Serotonin

Serotonin is found in dark chocolates with a high cocoa content. Dark chocolate can boost our mental health by increasing the serotonin level in our system. Serotonin is an effective antidepressant that relieves all internal tension.

4. Anandamide

The Sanskrit word for joy, "Ananda," is the source of the word "anandamide." Anandamide is a THC-like compound found in marijuana. Both anandamide and THC are in charge of the body's elevated dopamine production. Anandamide, which is present in chocolate, makes you feel joyful and elevates your mood.

5. Endorphins

This is another feel-good hormone released by our nervous system to alleviate pain and stress. Chocolate consumption increases endorphin levels in our brain, making it comfort food for the human brain. Dark chocolates stimulate these hormones to the greatest extent possible because the cocoa in dark chocolates maximises endorphin release.

Consuming chocolates is thus beneficial to your mental health; however, before indulging in this sweet treat, keep in mind that moderation is key. A daily chocolate treat will keep both our heart and brain happy and healthy.

Chocolates are a very versatile ingredient in the kitchen which you can use in multiple dishes easily and it will only enhance the dish you have added them into. Dishes such as chocolate cookies, chocolate ice cream, chocolate cake, pancakes, milkshakes, waffles, the list is endless. Here are some of the recipes you can try using chocolate at home.

Chocolate Lava Cake

You won't believe how simple it is to put together this chocolate treat. The batter just needs six ingredients and takes about five minutes to prepare.No hard lifting or mixing. Simply combine the butter and chocolate to melt them, then toss in the remaining ingredients while being careful not to overmix.

Hot Chocolate

These tiny treats resemble a hybrid of a souffle and a brownie. Melted butter, chocolate, and thickened egg yolks make up the basis. For a light and moist cake, carefully fold the egg white into the whipped batter. Serve immediately with whipped cream or ice cream.

Chocolate Fudge

Sometimes all you want is something chocolatey and sweet, but you don't want to worry about turning on the oven. Fudge can help with that. Condensed milk, chocolate, and a dash of salt should be heated slowly until blended and smooth. Pour into a dish that has been lined up after adding the vanilla. Nothing gets any simpler.

To change things up, try adding a tasty topping like chopped nuts or mini marshmallows.