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Does dark chocolate release happy hormones?

Cocoa (the primary ingredient used to make chocolates), according to various studies, triggers the brain to release endorphins, the “feel good” hormones. However, dark chocolate triggers maximum endorphin release.

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A bite of chocolate gives a satisfying snap from the moment it touches your lips to the time it coats your taste buds in a rich, pure velvety layer of sweet flavor. When done munching your favorite bar of chocolate, you’re left longing for more.

But… why?

Why do you crave for more of the chocolate? Why does it make you feel good?

Your general emotional well-being, or the effect of chocolates on the heart and brain could explain your craving. Chocolate has “feel good” chemicals linked to how you feel after eating it.

Chocolate and Endorphins

Physical exercise triggers the brain to release chemicals known as endorphins into the bloodstream. Chocolate has the same effect on the brain, explaining why it’s linked to endorphins.

What are Endorphins?

The brain often releases chemicals known as neurotransmitters to control how neurons communicate with each other in the body. The chemicals are known as endorphins. Endorphins interact with brain receptors to trigger positive emotions or feelings in your body, and reduce the perception of pain. The neurotransmitters can affect your feelings and actions directly depending on the circumstance.

So…

Why does Chocolate Trigger Endorphins?

Cocoa (the primary ingredient used to make chocolates), according to various studies, triggers the brain to release endorphins, the “feel good” hormones. However, dark chocolate triggers maximum endorphin release. This is unlike milk chocolate, its creamier counterpart. Pure cocoa is bitter in taste. Therefore, it’s mixed with sugar and milk to cancel out the bitterness. The more sugar and milk any given chocolate contains, the less pure its cocoa content. The more the cocoa in your chocolate, the more endorphins you’ll have released into your system. So, opt for dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate to enjoy an endless flow of endorphins into your blood for happy, healthy feelings.

Chocolate and Your Brain Chemistry

Other neurotransmitter chemicals linked to chocolate consumption include:

Serotonin

Dopamine

Oxytocin

Together with endorphins, the brain chemicals are released whenever you consume chocolate. They’re linked to your happiness, hence the warm, fuzzy feeling that ensues.

Benefits of Eating Chocolates

Chocolate enhances memory.

Multiple studies have shown that people who consume chocolates with high flavonal content experience better memory. The cocoa flavanols and flavonols in chocolate are flavonoids. They’re plant-based antioxidants with anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-viral, and anti-tumor properties.

The health benefits of eating chocolate are tied to these properties.

Other benefits of chocolate include:

Better heart health; lowers the risk of heart disease

Protects against diabetes and high blood pressure

Reduces atrial fibrillation

Boosts your mood

Offers relief from anxiety

Boosts energy and feelings of happiness

Enhances cognitive function

Counteracts adenosine neurotransmitter to increase muscle contraction and heart rate

Absorbs UV light to protect the skin

Despite the immense benefits of chocolate, it’s advisable to consume it in moderation. After all, too much of something is poisonous.

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Which bread is best for high cholesterol?

whole grain bread There is no reason to throw carbs out of the window if you have high cholesterol; just be mindful of what you're eating. Whole wheat or whole grain bread is your best bet due to the high amounts of fiber compared with other bread.

It can be challenging to know what food you can eat if you have high cholesterol, especially if you’re looking for something to snack on between meals. So many snack foods are loaded with saturated fats and sugar that it may seem prudent to cut out snacks altogether. However, eating at regular intervals is important for keeping normal blood sugar levels and your metabolism moving. While the best snacks are high in fiber or protein and low in sugar and saturated fats, it’s important to know that, as with every diet, there isn’t a one size fits all answer. “We're finding that different foods for different people can cause elevated cholesterol,” says Julia Zumpano, RD, from the Cleveland Clinic. “We're finding some people respond really well to a low-saturated-fat vegan diet to lower the cholesterol, and some people respond more on a higher-fat, higher-protein, and low-carb. It's really based on the mix of your genes.” Still, there are general rules to follow, including keeping mindful of what constitutes a snack. Definitions vary, but multiple dietitians say that a snack is only a small portion of food between meals, preferably around 200 calories. This can range from a piece of fruit to leftovers from last night’s dinner. Here are some surefire snack ideas that will keep you satisfied and your cholesterol levels stable throughout the day.

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