Since time immemorial, humans have had a long love affair with chocolate. From Aztec kings and European explorers to renowned Swiss chocolate makers and to the favorites we know and love today, chocolate is a delicious part of our history. But why do people love it so much?
Pleasure of chocolate
There’s nothing like that first bite of chocolate, when it melts in your mouth and suddenly, it feels like everything that has gone off kilter in the world rights itself. Psychology Today says it’s because eating chocolate leads to the release of dopamine in the brain. Often called happy hormones, these hormones are released whenever you experience a pleasurable activity. Sex, laughing or watching reruns of your favorite show on Netflix releases these happy hormones in your system. Eating chocolate has the same effect.
Benefits of chocolate
People hear a lot of people say you should take it easy with chocolate. But that’s because of the sugar that comes with processed chocolate. If you want a healthier dose, skip the white chocolate and always go for the dark chocolate instead. These contain helpful flavonoids and antioxidants that are good for your health. Keep in mind, though, to stay away from milk if you’re having dark chocolate. That’s because the milk can cancel out the healthy goodness of chocolate, preventing them from getting fully absorbed in your body.
Plenty of options
Another great thing about chocolate is that you can enjoy it in many forms, in many ways. Melty, squares of lush chocolate are luxurious and never fail to make you feel like you’re in chocolate heaven. But these aren’t exactly portable and travel-friendly. If you’re always on-the-go, bars are a good solid choice. With plenty of shops offering chocolate bar options in Chicago, you’ll find it easier to take along your choco stash wherever you go.