Chocolate contains several neuroactive chemicals and substances, which can affect the functioning of your brain and central nervous system. The neuroactivity of certain chemicals in chocolate may explain why some individuals find chocolate boosts their moods, or is a particularly addictive foodstuff. There are both potential benefits and disadvantages to chocolate consumption, and you should consult your doctor before making any significant dietary changes.
Caffeine
According to an article in the August 1997 issue of the journal "Molecular Neurobiology," caffeine is the most commonly used neuroactive drug. Caffeine works to stimulate the central nervous system, or CNS, and is found in chocolate, tea, coffee, certain soda beverages, and medications available both over-the-counter and by prescription only. Caffeine can increase your alertness and sense of being awake, but may be dangerous for caffeine-sensitive individuals, those with heart problems, or patients with caffeine-sensitive seizures.
Tetrahydro-beta-carbolines
Tetrahydro-beta-carbolines, also known as THbetaCs, are alkaloid chemicals which can potentially have a neuroactive effect. According to a report in the October 2000 issue of the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry," THbetaCs were found in both chocolate and cocoa products. The highest THbetaC content was found in chocolates and cocoas, but chocolate-flavored cereals were also found to contain THbetaCs.
Serotonin
Serotonin is a growth hormone and a form of amine, which occurs naturally in chocolate and chocolate products, according to Herraiz's article in "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry." However, Professor Steve Atkins of Hull York Medical School indicates that the ability of chocolate to boost your brain serotonin levels is due to the presence of polyphenols in dark chocolate. Polyphenols can alter serotonin levels in your brain, and may also lower blood pressure. Professor Atkins found positive results in patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome when small quantities of dark chocolate were consumed daily, and indicated these effects were due to changes in brain serotonin level.
Other Biogenic Amines
Serotonin is one of four biogenic amines believed to occur naturally in chocolate, according to an August 1981 report in the "Analyst." The other three biogenic amines are tyramine, 2-phenylethylamine and tryptamine. These amines also occur naturally in other foods -- examples include milk, bakery products, fish and cheese. According "Analyst" report, analysis of biogenic amines in chocolate, all four amines were found in both chocolate and chocolate liquors
References
- "Molecular Neurobiology"; Caffeine and the Olfactory Bulb; M.G. Hadfield; August 1997
- "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry"; Tetrahydro-beta-carbolines, Potential Neuroactive Alkaloids, in Chocolate and Cocoa; T. Herraiz; October 2000
- "Analyst"; High-Performance Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Four Biogenic Amines in Chocolate; W. Jeffrey Hurst and Paul B. Toomey ; August 1981
- Medical News Today: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms Reduced By Dark Chocolate Consumption
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