Immediate Effects of Chocolate

"A new British survey has revealed that 9 out of 10 people like Chocolate. The tenth lies." - Robert Paul

I am sure you agree with this proposition, though I do not know whether you are among the first nine or you are the tenth! Well, you might belong to any of the groups, but one thing’s for a fact; and that is your love for chocolates! And if I tell you that chocolate also offers certain health benefits, won’t it be an icing on the cake? (Perhaps, the icing on a chocolate cake!) Let us take a look at the immediate effects of chocolate on our health.

Immediate Effects of Chocolate

Dark chocolate is beneficial for the circulatory system. Cocoa acts as an antioxidant thus preventing an excessive LDL oxidation. Chocolate is believed to result in the reduction in blood pressure. Cocoa or chocolate that is rich in flavanol acts like an aspirin, promoting healthy blood flow. Cocoa-related products are believed to enhance the serum lipid profile. They promote vascular relaxation. Consumption of chocolate in small amounts results in a reduced risk of heart attack.

Cocoa-based products are believed to contain certain substances that reduce the risk of cancer. Little is known about whether dark chocolate increases or decreases the risk of cancers. One of the long-term effects of chocolate is the postponement in the decline of brain function. It is said to reduce the risk of dementia to a certain extent.

Certain amino acids in chocolate are responsible for lessening anxiety, which in turn leads to an elevation of mood. The immediate effect of the consumption of chocolates is the improvement in negative mood. Consumption of palatable chocolate results in the generation of positive emotions. This effect of chocolate is largely attributed to its appetizing and pleasant nature.

Consumption of chocolates is associated with sensual pleasure. Many believe that chocolates arouse sexual feelings. This is said to be the result of increased levels of Serotonin on consuming chocolate.

Chocolate is often referred to as a brain stimulator and a mood elevator. Theobromine, the alkaloid in cocoa and chocolate is said to elevate mood. It also acts as a stimulant for human beings. The bioactive substances present in chocolate are said to increase alertness. Chocolate leads to the release of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. It results in the release of endorphins, which lead to a rise in the comfort level of the consumer of chocolate. The release of the neurotransmitter phenylethylamine caused by chocolate, results in increased alertness and excitement. Chocolate is believed to stimulate the release of dopamine, which causes a feeling of well-being.

True, chocolate has always been associated with pleasure. It is consumed for enjoyment and is known to elevate one’s mood. The most prominent after-effect of chocolates is that it makes you happy. And when it comes to gaining happiness, nothing remains to be said. You need no excuse to have a chocolate, at absolutely any time of the day! So what are you waiting for? Go get one for yourself and enjoy!