Chocolate & Happiness
Liam Reilly
| 02-01-2025
· Food Team
If you've ever indulged in a piece of chocolate and felt your mood instantly lift, you’re not alone. That sweet treat has a magical effect that seems to banish any bad vibes, leaving you feeling happier and more relaxed.
Dear Lykkers, but what exactly is it about chocolate that triggers this joyful response? Let’s explore how chocolate works its wonders.

How Chocolate Triggers a Positive Feeling

When you consume chocolate, your body begins to produce endorphins, the natural "feel-good" chemicals. These substances are your body's way of alleviating pain and stress, which is why you feel a sense of happiness after eating chocolate. But the release of endorphins isn’t just limited to pain—other activities, like laughing, working out, or even receiving a soothing massage, can also trigger these feel-good chemicals. So, when you eat chocolate, your brain recognizes it as a pleasurable experience, leading to an overall better mood.

Extra Reasons Why Chocolate Makes You Happy

The Role of Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate, in particular, has been found to stimulate the brain to release endorphins more effectively than other types. This is because dark chocolate contains higher levels of cocoa, which boosts the production of endorphins. So, the next time you crave chocolate, reaching for a piece of dark chocolate might just give you that extra happiness boost.

Why chocolate makes us happy

Video by Australian Academy of Science

The Melting Sensation
One of the most delightful aspects of eating chocolate is how it melts in your mouth. This sensation is not only enjoyable but also triggers the brain to release endorphins. As the chocolate slowly dissolves, your body registers it as a pleasurable experience, making you feel good with every bite.
The Emotional Connection
Eating chocolate can also evoke memories of childhood, where it was often given as a reward or as a treat on special occasions. These nostalgic memories create an emotional connection with chocolate, leading to positive feelings. The act of eating chocolate becomes intertwined with happy moments from the past, making it even more enjoyable today.

Chocolate Literally Puts a Smile on Your Face

It’s no secret that chocolate is considered the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re indulging in a piece after a long day or enjoying it as a treat with friends, chocolate has a unique ability to lift your spirits. That’s why having a stock of your favorite chocolate at home is always a great idea. You never know when you’ll need that mood-boosting, smile-inducing snack! So go ahead, treat yourself to a little chocolate—it’s the perfect remedy for those moments when you need to feel just a bit better.