I’m sure we’ve all been through that stage once or twice or maybe even multiples times haha where we just cant resist that sweet chocolaty temptation that somehow finds its way into our possession!!
So aside from the fact its so damn good – what’s our body/brain trying to tell us when that inner voice begins the process of reason towards encouraging us to indulge.
Chocolate cravings can often be linked to low blood sugar, stress and changing hormonal levels. In the case where your feeling irritable, moody and fatigued the quick fix of sugar will pick those blood glucose levels back up, it is also interesting to note that chocolate has a very distinct effect on our brain neurotransmitters – namely Serotonin and Dopamine. Serotonin is responsible for feelings of well being and enhanced mood. Dopamine is another feel good neurotransmitter released when you experience anything that you enjoy. An efficient and powerful brain network evolved so that a positive outcome would be repeated, the Dopamine signal sent through the reward circuit of the brain brings positive feelings and assessments of the situation, such as the pleasure we receive from consuming our favourite chocolaty sweet.
Estrogen dominance particularly related to women and their menstrual cycle can cause a deficiency in the bodies Magnesium level, chocolate has very high levels of Magnesium which is another reason why we look to chocolate to fix the problem.
These days it is not uncommon for us to suffer from one or all of the above mentioned issues (low blood sugars, stress, unbalanced hormones), so what is the best way to address these??
It goes without saying that a well balanced nutritional intake including a wide variety of foods to maximize nutrient absorption and to provide the body with all the essentials required for optimal health should always be your first point of action. Identifying your particular ‘stressors’ and doing your best to eliminate and/or manage these – reducing stress will go a long way towards achieving your health and fitness goals whatever they may be. Smart supplementation – dont get caught up in all the fancy gimmicks and the ‘this will change your life in 30 days’ rubbish, focus on the basics and support your body to create an inner sanctuary of health and wellbeing, get this lot covered and the results will flow !!
Now if your one of those people that simply cannot part with your beloved chocolate treat opt for Dark Chocolate containing 70% + Cocoa –
Rich in Fibre,Iron , Magnesium, Copper, Manganese and other minerals.
Powerful source of Antioxidants.
May improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Raises HDL (good Cholesterol) and decreases oxidization of LDL ( bad cholesterol).
May lower the risk of cardiovascular Disease and increase brain function.
I dont know about you, but I’m sold !!!
