Chocolate. The feeling of delight triggered by a mouthful is familiar to many of us. Its visual aspect, its scent, its taste, the sound it makes when we bite into it, the sensation once in the mouth – chocolate provides an experience that activates all of our senses. Of course, not everyone loves chocolate, but most of us do. Some of us will even happen to crave it from time to time, may it be out of boredom, as a coping mechanism, or for no reason other than the joy it brings. But what about chocolate makes it so irresistible?
Scientists have tried to answer this question. Some facts about chocolate are now widely accepted, while some theories are still debated. Studies have proven that, when we eat chocolate, our brain releases chemicals such as endorphins or serotonin, which are known to be associated with happiness and overall wellness. How chocolate triggers this reaction in the brain is a bit more unclear. Compounds found in chocolate may be responsible, but they are present in such small quantities that their role is still questioned.
Chemicals the brain releases
Four chemicals are known to be released by the brain when eating chocolate: endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. These chemicals are used by neurons to communicate with one another.
Endorphins are natural pain relievers; their name actually comes from a contraction of the words ‘endogenous’ (which means ‘from within’) and ‘morphine’. These chemicals interact with receptors in our brain. Their function is double: besides reducing pain, they also boost pleasure. They are released by the brain in response to pain or stress, but also during enjoyable activities such as eating chocolate.
Four chemicals are known to be released by the brain when eating chocolate: endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin.
Serotonin is commonly associated with happiness. People with depression or anxiety often have low levels of serotonin. This chemical is able to improve our mood, our satisfaction, our optimism, and our overall wellbeing.
Dopamine is involved in what is called the reward system: when the brain releases dopamine, the chemical activates parts of the brain known as pleasure centres, which make us feel good. Dopamine makes our pupils dilate, a sign that is often associated with love and attraction.
Oxytocin is another chemical which could explain why eating chocolate is so enjoyable. Oxytocin is involved in social bonding. The brain releases this chemical in response to love, for example every time we hug someone and also, it seems, whenever we eat chocolate.
The power of chocolate
Different compounds of chocolate are suspected to be involved in the chemical reactions happening inside the brain. Tryptophan is used to make serotonin. Phenylethylamine is a natural antidepressant that produces feelings similar to falling in love. Theobromine has a relaxing effect and helps relieve stress. However, these compounds are present in chocolate in such small quantities that they may be entirely digested before they can even reach the brain.
‘Eat, you’ll feel better’, said Lupin in one of the Harry Potter movies while handing a chocolate bar to Harry. The fact that chocolate is nice to eat and makes us feel better is widely accepted, and this mindset may be what creates the feeling of happiness: it could be that eating chocolate makes us happy just because we are convinced of its benefits.
While scientists attempt to unlock the mysteries of chocolate, all that is left to do is eat and enjoy!
Daphnée Poupon is a science writer based in France.
FAQs
Chocolate has been associated with love and desire largely because of its delicious taste and its ability to delight the senses. In addition, it is believed that certain compounds in cocoa, such as phenylethylamine, can produce feelings of euphoria and happiness, which has reinforced its link to romantic emotions.
What do you say when gifting chocolate? ›
"Sending love and lots of sweet chocolates to make your day even sweeter!" "Here's to a day filled with love, chocolate, and happiness." "Wishing you a day as sweet as chocolate, and a love as rich as cocoa." "Happy Chocolate Day to the one who makes my life sweeter every day.
What does chocolate mean in a relationship? ›
Chocolate gift has a strong symbolic meaning, that of love, passion, care and, happy life. It is a great simple gift that can surprise your partner and make them feel special. Let's see why?
What does it mean when a girl is craving chocolate? ›
In women, according to numerous studies, cravings for chocolate seem to correspond to hormone changes (menstruation, pregnancy etc). Women also suffer a serotonin decrease in the week before menstruation that leads to a fall in other hormones in their systems this in turn leads to a craving for chocolate.
What if a boy gives chocolate to a girl? ›
If you give a girl a chocolate or anything it means there's something special about the girl or it can be in way of 'just friends' too but come on, we all know that we gift someone something either to show them that they are that important to us (that close) or there is something important like birthdays, anniversaries ...
What does it mean when a girl says she needs chocolate? ›
here are some possible answers to your question: She has PMS and needs you to help alleviate her symptoms with chocolate. She recognizes you have a crush on her and she's trying to help you by letting you know that you can give her gifts and ask her out on a date.
What is a catchy saying about chocolate? ›
World Chocolate Day 2023 Short Captions
"Chocolate: a little piece of heaven." "Life is sweeter with chocolate." "Embrace the cocoa magic." "Unlock the power of chocolate."
What does chocolate symbolize as a gift? ›
Chocolate: the food that symbolizes love, passion, and happiness. As such an indulgent sweet treat, it's often gifted during special occasions, whether anniversaries or birthdays. It's a universally loved food you can give to your parent, child, romantic partner, or distant friend, and know they will be delighted.
Is chocolate a romantic gift? ›
Giving chocolates as a gift on Valentine's Day is a romantic gesture that has become popular in recent years. It is seen as a thoughtful and adventurous way to express love and affection, representing sweetness, appreciation, and the desire to please one's beloved.
Why is chocolate a symbol of love? ›
From at least the time of the Aztecs, chocolate has been seen as an aphrodisiac. So it's reasonable to assume that it has been connected to love's dedicated day of celebration for many centuries.
Phenylethlalanine and Theobromine are other components in chocolate that can make us feel happy. Phenylethlalanine creates similar to feelings to when we fall in love; increased alertness, increased heart rate, and motivation. It also acts as a natural antidepressant.
What is it called when you love chocolate? ›
A chocoholic is a person who craves or compulsively consumes chocolate.
Which gender likes chocolate more? ›
Gender Differences in Kinds of Foods Craved
Consistently, a few studies have shown that more than 92 percent of those who experience strong cravings for chocolate are female [77,78].
Which chocolate do girls love? ›
Dairy Milk Chocolate
One of the most famous chocolate brands in the world, dairy milk chocolate is also a bit milky. Most of the girls like dairy milk chocolate so she won't mind if you give her a bouquet of dairy milk chocolates.
Do girls like chocolate as a gift? ›
Want to win a woman and melt her heart? Present her with a box of chocolates or candy. This traditional romantic gift is a sure-fire winner in pleasing a woman. Women adore and crave chocolates at all times, all seasons, all occasions and for all excuses.
How does a girl feel when you give her chocolate? ›
It is believed that it releases the chemical Dopamine in the pleasure centers of the brain. It is also responsible for the beguiling smell of the chocolate. That is why chocolates are identified as aphrodisiacs by romantic lore.
Is giving chocolate romantic? ›
Giving chocolates as a gift on Valentine's Day is a romantic gesture that has become popular in recent years. It is seen as a thoughtful and adventurous way to express love and affection, representing sweetness, appreciation, and the desire to please one's beloved.
Does chocolate mean I love you? ›
Chocolate has been an ancient tradition in many cultures for years and is often associated with romantic love.
