Chocolate and Cravings

Many people describe their desire to eat chocolate as a "craving." In fact, studies have shown that chocolate is the single most craved food in this country, particularly by women. Men experience cravings less often than women, and when they do have cravings, men are more apt to long for foods like steak, hamburgers or french fries.

Chocolate is often craved as a highly satisfying, small "indulgence." Research tells us that chocolate is so appealing because of its aroma, creaminess, and flavor - a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. The cocoa butter in chocolate is unique because it melts at mouth temperature, slowly releasing rich chocolate flavor during eating.

Strict dieting or food deprivation can intensify cravings and may lead to binge eating. That is why many nutrition experts recommend satisfying one's craving by eating the desired food. However, contrary to popular belief, it is unlikely that the body needs the craved foods or specific nutrients in those foods.

Experts are actively conducting research to determine other causes of cravings. Recent research has focused on chemicals in the brain, called neurotransmitters, that might affect one's mood and desire for different types of foods.

One of the better understood neurotransmitters is serotonin, which is thought to help people feel calm and relaxed. According to one theory, a decrease in serotonin levels leads to craving for starches and for sweet foods, like chocolate, because foods high in carbohydrates may help boost the amount of serotonin in the brain. A feeling of well-being is said to return with a rise in serotonin levels.

Additionally, some researchers believe that serotonin levels are related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and may explain premenstrual cravings for foods containing carbohydrates (sugar and starches).

Many different brain chemicals have been linked to eating and to cravings for certain types of food. Endorphins are believed to be "feel good" neurotransmitters. In contrast to serotonin, endorphin levels appear to be affected by dietary fat. Thus, it has been suggested that eating fat-containing foods, like chocolate, might increase endorphins and lift a person's mood.

Perhaps the most important factor is that people simply like the taste of chocolate. So, while scientists search for complex technical reasons for chocolate cravings, the answer may be a simple one-chocolate just happens to taste good.