Chocolate is derived from the cacao tree, native in Central and South America. The Mayan and Aztec cultures used chocolate extensively in a fermented beverage called xocolatl, containing cacao beans, hot chili, and corn.
Chocolate makes us feel good! It contains l-tryptophan, a precursor of serotonin, which creates feelings of satisfaction, contentment, and even elation. Chocolate also contains phenylethylamine which stimulates pleasurable feelings: joy, excitement, elevated mood, and euphoria. The same area of the brain that responds to sex and music, also responds to chocolate. Eating chocolate triggers the release of endorphins in the brain which relieve pain. Chocolate gives more satisfaction if a small portion is ingested slowly...it is all about the taste!
One ounce of dark chocolate contains 136 calories, 1.19 grams of protein, 8.51 grams of fat, 9 mg of calcium, 33 mg of magnesium, 37 mg of phosphorus, 103 mg of potassium and 18 mg of caffeine. It also contains vitamins B1, B2, D, E, and is high in antioxidants. Chocolate is naturally bitter, so beware of the sugar, fats, and milk added to candy to make it more delicious. Dark chocolate contains bioflavonoids which have anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer health benefits. Dark chocolate has been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, making it great for heart health.
So, go ahead, treat yourself to a bit of chocolate today!
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