Does theobromine make you happy?
These components is likely tryptophan, which is an amino acid found in chocolate that helps the brain make serotonin, a neurotransmitter that makes us feel happy and satisfied. Other components of chocolate that may contribute to a burst of happiness are phenylethylalanine and theobromine.
Why am I suddenly obsessed chocolate?
Because dopamine is released into your brain when you eat chocolate, it can actually lower your levels of stress. This is why people often crave chocolate in stressful situations, or crave it when they are in need of comfort or reassurance. Clearly, emotions play some part in the cravings that you have.
What is an addiction to chocolate called?
A chocoholic is a person who craves or compulsively consumes chocolate. The word “chocoholic” was first used in 1968, according to Merriam-Webster. It is a portmanteau of “chocolate” and “alcoholic”.
Can you get withdrawal symptoms from giving up chocolate?
When people drastically reduce their sugar intake, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, cravings, and mood changes. These should go away within a few days or weeks.
Does chocolate raise serotonin levels?
However, because chocolate contains tryptophan, the resulting increase in serotonin can help explain why one might feel happier, calmer, or less anxious after eating a piece of their chocolate cake (Serotonin).
Why do I feel good after eating chocolate?
Endorphins are not the only brain chemicals linked to chocolate consumption. Together with dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin these four neurotransmitters form the quartet that is responsible for our happiness and they are all released when we eat chocolate. Hence that warm and fuzzy feeling it gives us.
Why do I crave chocolate every day?
Because you’re hungry Sometimes chocolate cravings can be easily explained: You’re just hungry. When your body is hungry, it craves fast carbohydrates like refined sugars. Unfortunately, most processed chocolate is high on the glycemic index, which means that it gives you a quick, but temporary sugar rush.
How do you break a chocolate addiction?
4 easy ways to beat chocolate cravings
- Take a 15 minute walk. A new study led by researchers at the University of Innsbruck in Austria found just 15 minutes of exercise can keep you from indulging.
- Eat chocolate, but smarter.
- Incorporate chocolate in other ways.
- Use mindful distraction.
Is chocolate as addictive as drugs?
Although there are similarities between eating chocolate and drug use, generally researchers believe that chocolate “addiction” is not a true addiction. While chocolate does contain potentially mood-altering substances, these are all found in higher concentrations in other less appealing foods such as broccoli.
How do you beat a chocolate addiction?
You can beat your chocolate craving by filling up on something else. Once you aren’t hungry anymore, the intrusive thoughts about chocolate should subside. Look for foods that are low in sugar and high in protein or whole grains. These foods will keep you full longer and prevent a sugar crash.
Does chocolate trigger dopamine?
Though chocolate is known for its ability to increase levels of the calming neurotransmitter serotonin, it also contains small amounts of a compound called phenylethylamine, which acts like an amphetamine, stimulating your brain cells to release dopamine.