What neurotransmitter is released when eating chocolate?

Endorphins are not the only brain chemicals linked to chocolate consumption. Together with dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin these four neurotransmitters form the quartet that is responsible for our happiness and they are all released when we eat chocolate.

Can chocolate affect your brain chemistry?

Eating chocolate increases the levels of endorphins released into the brain, giving credence to the claim that chocolate is a comfort food. The endorphins work to lessen pain and decrease stress (2). Another common neurotransmitter affected by chocolate is serotonin. Serotonin is known as an anti-depressant.

What hormones does chocolate stimulate?

Chocolate contains a key compound called tryamine, which is derived from the amino acid tyrosine. Tyrosine is the amino acid precursor to dopamine (Roizman). With increased tyrosine levels comes increased dopamine levels, which results in the activation of the reward center in the brain.

What receptor does chocolate bind to?

Both caffeine and theobromine belong to the methylxanthine chemical family. These chemicals act as stimulants of the nervous system, most notably by binding to adenosine receptors in the brain and thereby blocking adenosine from binding to the receptors [7].

Does eating chocolate release serotonin?

Chocolate may interact with some neurotransmitter systems such as dopamine (chocolate contains the dopamine precursor tyrosine), serotonin and endorphins (contained in cocoa and chocolate) that contribute to appetite, reward and mood regulation. Poor mood stimulates the eating of comfort foods such as chocolate.

Is chocolate a dopamine agonist?

Though chocolate is known for its ability to increase levels of the calming neurotransmitter serotonin, it also contains small amounts of a compound called phenylethylamine, which acts like an amphetamine, stimulating your brain cells to release dopamine.

Does chocolate affect memory?

Dark Chocolate Improves Memory, Reduces Stress. Researchers say eating dark chocolate can change your brain wave frequency, providing benefits in memory improvement and stress reduction. It’s well-known to most people with a sweet tooth that dark chocolate can be a healthier indulgence.

Does chocolate boost oxytocin?

The magnesium in the dark chocolate helps with your oxytocin receptor and healthy fats in the avocado helps to produce our hormones.

What foods are high in serotonin?

What Foods Can Boost Serotonin?

• Salmon. Salmon is a rich source of tryptophan, which is important for producing serotonin.
• Nuts and Seeds.
• Turkey and Poultry.
• Eggs.
• Tofu and Soy.
• Milk and Cheese.
• Pineapple.

What does chocolate do to your brain?

Dark Chocolate Improves Blood Flow to the Brain. Compounds in dark chocolate boost memory, attention span, reaction time, and problem-solving skills by increasing blood flow to the brain. The flavonoids in chocolate have been shown to improve blood flow to the brain in young and old alike.

Does chocolate contain serotonin?

Chocolate does not contain the natural antidepressant called serotonin, as this is a neurotransmitter that only the human brain can make. What chocolate does contain is tryptophan , the amino-acid that the body takes from the foods we eat in order to make serotonin.

What foods release serotonin?

The Takeaway: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter released by the pineal gland of the brain. It is most well-known for its positive effect on mood, but it also helps to regulate digestion and body temperature. Foods that boost serotonin include: kiwi, dark chocolate, seeds, nuts and vitamin D-rich foods.