Chocolate Cravings

Chocolate cravings – the very sound of the two words make you go like ‘yum’!! Well, recent scientific studies have revealed that our craving for chocolate might be related to alcohol craving, which is to imply that chocolate in itself contains addictive properties like alcohol. This tasty treat contains alkaloid compounds that are also present in alcohol. This is also something that explains why a lot of recovering addicts and alcoholics resort to chocolate for curbing their cravings, especially during the early days of sobriety. In fact, organizations like the Alcoholics Anonymous recommend chocolate for curbing alcohol addiction.

The first body to discover that ordinary cocoa and chocolate bars contain alkaloids had been the researchers at the Spanish Council for Scientific Research, Madrid. The experts found that chocolate bars and cocoa contain alkaloids which are known as tetra hydro beta carbolines. The same chemical were said to e present in alcohol. These are essentially neuro active alkaloids which are thought to influence the mood and behavior. Chocolate cravings are like marijuana cravings as chocolate contains a pleasure inducing compound known as anandamide. The digestive acids that are present in the tummy help break down the compound before it can enter the bloodstream.

The American Dietetic Association also confirmed the notion that chocolate can be addictive and might be used in the form of a self medication to cure dietary deficiencies. The compounds that are responsible for craving chocolate are also present in beer, liquor and wine, although there is no relation between food addiction and compulsive drinking. What needs to be established is the influence of the active substances on the effect of pleasure which might complete the entire picture of chocolate craving and addiction. Craving is something that is also induced by other substances present in chocolate like magnesium and caffeine.

There are also higher levels of various compounds that are correlated with cocoa and the effects it generates. The darker the chocolate, it is likely that the more compounds it contains. Now coming to the cravings for chocolates, there are various ways to combat the desire. Try and exercise as this is one of the best ways of keeping the pace with the world. Science has proved that cravings of cigarettes and alcohol can be reduced by exercise through stimulating the activity of the chemicals that react in your brain to make you feel good. In fact, after a 320 minutes’ stroll, people have reported to feel better.

Studies have also shown that women tend to crave chocolates more than men. If you need more help with chocolate cravings, you need to ensure that you are less affected by boredom, stress and anxiety. People tend to confuse thirst with hunger and hence they should focus on methods of outwitting their appetite. Appetite suppressants can be used to curb cravings for chocolate. Instead of taking those killer pills, it is best to gulp down a smoothie. Well, you can take in a few bites of dark chocolate occasionally as after all, these are good for the heart.

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