Sin ?

There are few topics more controversial than addictive behaviors and the defensiveness an addict or user might display when confronted with his or her behavior. There are many behaviors and substances that people get a habit for and I have written here about gambling, marijuana and some others. Now I think it is time to address a pervasive and misunderstood dependency we all run into in our daily lives. I mean Chocolate.
There are scholarly papers published on the psychoactive, mood altering effects and aphrodisiac properties of the cacao bean. Anandamide is a powerful chemical our brain produces to regulate mood and appetite. It occurs in chocolate. Caffeine is also present. So is tryptophan. The combination of stimulant and sedative effects may produce a unique mental state in a sensitive consumer.
The other effects are from flavonoids which seem to protect the heart and blood vessels. Chocolate, especially the dark variety is not particularly sticky. This means it doesn’t stick well to the surface of teeth. It is not a decay promoter. Phenylethelamine is the chemical that produces the feeling of love in the brain. This may be why the affection for chocolate is so passionate.
There have been a few centenarians who have been fond of chocolate but they seem to prefer the dark variety. The sugary milk chocolate popular in the US may contribute to weight and metabolic problems. Overall though, I would say a daily dose would do most people some good. It isn’t illegal and won’t make driving dangerous.
With Halloween only two months away, it may be time for some of you seniors to start stocking up on trick or treats and begin planning that costume! Don’t be shy, it’s for your health!