Well, Mr. Cameroon puts it simply: "Because it’s very tasty.” But Mr. Holland reveals a possibly addictive substance in chocolate. Theobromine is an active ingredient in chocolate and it occurs only in cacao. Theobromine and caffeine share a similar chemical structure. While theobromine is not as addictive, it has been cited as possibly causing addiction to chocolate.
Chocolate As An Aphrodisiac
Theobromine also has been linked to an even more interesting topic, contributing to chocolate’s role as an aphrodisiac. Three other components have been linked to mood and potential aphrodisiac effects: PEA, tryptophan, and anandamide. PEA, a central nervous system stimulant, is thought to help arouse emotions. It occurs naturally in the brain, and occurs naturally at its peak during orgasm. Neurologists and dieticians consider PEA as a strong contender as a possible aphrodisiac. Second on the list is tryptophan. Our brain uses tryptophan to make serotonin. Serotonin can produce feelings of elation. Last is anandamide. Anandamide binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, mimicking the effects of cannabinoid drugs, such as heightened sensitivity, euphoria, and a sense of well-being. Some researchers attest that the amount of anandamide in chocolate is too small to have any effect.
From the article “Fact or Myth: Is Chocolate an Aphrodisiac?": "A team of Italian urologists recently reported that women who eat chocolate feel significantly more sexually fulfilled than those who don’t. The director of Nigeria’s Federal Agency for Food and Medicine recently went as far as to advise Nigerians to forego Viagra in favor of eating chocolate."
Do Women Enjoy Chocolate More Than Men?
Well according to Mr. U.S., it all comes down to sexual repression. He says women consciously or subconsciously eat chocolate instead of acting on their sexual desires. Mr. China believes it is because women need more love than men, while Ms. U.S. offers a slightly less controversial answer: “Women naturally turn to food for comfort more than men. Chocolate seems to be the most popular comfort food. Chocolate also has a unique quality. Women go to it for all different sorts of emotional needs. It’s fantastic when one is joyful, depressed, and all ranges in between.”
Who Makes the Best Chocolate?
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
Don't forget wine and chocolate, the classic twosome!