Chocolate is a beloved treat enjoyed by many people around the world. From its rich, sweet flavor to its smooth, creamy texture, there's no denying that chocolate has a special place in our hearts and taste buds.
But what is it about chocolate that makes us love it so much? Is it the way it melts in our mouths, or the way it satisfies our sweet tooth? Or could it be something deeper, perhaps a psychological or emotional connection rooted in our childhood memories or cultural traditions? we'll explore the many reasons why humans have a deep and abiding love for chocolate.
Nikki Keay, an endocrinologist specialized in treating athletes and a distinguished clinical lecturer at the University of London College of Medicine, says that a strong desire for chocolate may be a response to a stressful situation that a person may be experiencing.
According to a group of doctors, a craving for chocolate usually occurs when the atmosphere becomes tense, and it is related to the fight or flight response that our bodies have been accustomed to using in the face of danger since ancient times.
The impact of chocolate on relaxation
Dr Sarah Brewer, a specialist in therapeutic nutrition, explains that in response to a sharp drop in blood sugar levels, the body activates the fight or flight response to raise glucose and fatty acid levels in the bloodstream. These nutrients are essential fuel for proper muscle and brain function.
She further explains that this stress response can trigger hunger and drive you to eat to raise your fuel levels, which may lead to a craving for certain foods, especially sweets and starchy foods that can quickly raise blood sugar levels.
Dr. Brewer also notes that "it's interesting to note that chocolate has effects on the brain, as it can aid in relaxation and give you a sense of well-being by raising levels of various chemicals in the brain, such as phenylethylamine, a mood modulator that is associated with amphetamines and gives you a mild euphoric feeling that can increase your confidence.
Dr. Brewer advises anyone who craves chocolate to choose a variety that is rich in antioxidants, with a minimum cocoa solids content of 70%, instead of milk chocolate or white chocolate.
Anger and Hunger
Dr. Brewer also discussed another reason for our desire to eat chocolate, which is the feeling of anger. She says, "When you feel hungry, your brain is in desperate need of glucose, and this affects your ability to control yourself, which increases the likelihood of exhibiting angry or aggressive behaviors.
In the same context, Rob Hobson, a sports nutritionist, explains that "some studies conducted on animals have shown that physical stress or emotional distress can lead to an increase in the amount of high-fat and high-sugar foods we eat, and it is believed that elevated levels of cortisol, along with insulin, are responsible for this.
He adds, "Once high-fat and high-sugar foods are digested, they have a retroactive effect that reduces the stress associated with responses and emotions... They are indeed comfort foods as they are commonly referred to.
He also points out that most people are aware that certain foods can improve their mood or trigger other emotions, ranging from feelings of comfort to extreme anxiety.
Hobson adds that "the relationship between blood glucose levels and mental health is a proven matter.
He also notes that the brain relies on glucose for energy, which means that low blood sugar can lead to impaired brain function and affect cognitive abilities such as memory recall, as well as causing feelings of fatigue and irritability.
Depression
According to Hobson, "A study published in the journal Diabetes Care found that high blood glucose levels were associated with an increased risk of developing symptoms of depression in adults with type 2 diabetes."
The results of this study, according to Hobson, suggest that dysregulation of blood glucose levels may contribute to the development of depression. He notes that there is a vast amount of research showing that blood sugar levels can affect mood and cognitive function.
Here are some easy-to-follow tips to reduce your cravings for sweets:
1. Take a 15-minute walk: A short walk can help reduce your cravings for sweets by distracting you and improving your mood.
2. Keep a food diary: Writing down what you eat can help you stay accountable and aware of your eating habits. This can help you make better choices and reduce your cravings for sweets.
3. Try a dietary supplement: Some supplements, such as chromium and magnesium, have been shown to help reduce sugar cravings. However, be sure to discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider before taking them.
4. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can lead to increased cravings for sweets. Make sure to get enough rest each night to help keep your cravings in check.
5. Eat regular, balanced meals: Eating regular, balanced meals can help keep your blood sugar levels stable and reduce your cravings for sweets. Make sure to include protein, healthy fats, and fiber in each meal to help you feel full and satisfied.