Chocolate is a sweet treat made from the cocoa beans from the Theobroma cacao tree. Interestingly, theo-broma in Greek means food of the gods. Before chocolate arrived in Europe in the 16th century, the Aztecs treated cocoa beans as currency. At first, the new delicacy was only available to wealthy Europeans, but over time, modern production technologies allowed chocolate to be available to everyone.
It can be divided into several types, depending on the cocoa pulp content and, as of 2017, also on the variety of cocoa from which it is made. A distinction is made between dark chocolate, dessert chocolate, milk chocolate, pink chocolate and white chocolate (not considered chocolate by everyone).
What makes chocolate so popular?
We reach for it because of its unique taste. In addition, after eating a portion of chocolate, we think better and concentrate more easily. Our mood improves. The symptoms of fatigue and the effects of stress also disappear. This is all thanks to the chemical substances hidden in chocolate. These include:
– caffeine and theobromine - stimulate the nervous system, reduce feelings of mental fatigue,
– phenylethylamine - stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin, the hormones of happiness, leading to feelings of euphoria and improved mood,
– flavonoids - act as antioxidants, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, slow down the ageing process and prevent cancer,
– tryptophan - an amino acid that influences our mood and relaxation,
– vitamins, such as A, E and B vitamins, and minerals, for instance magnesium, potassium and iron.
It is worth remembering, however, that too much chocolate can lead to overweight and other health problems, so it is worth eating it in moderation.
Author: Agata
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