You’re not just imagining that a piece of dark chocolate boosts your mood!
Dark chocolate and cacao nibs, which are made from dried cacao beans, contain small quantities of a compound called anandamide. Anandamine, referred to as the “bliss molecule,” is also produced naturally in the brain and is part of what is referred to as the endocannabinoid system.
The word anandamide originates from the Sanskrit word ananda meaning joy, happiness, or bliss! Research suggests the endocannabinoid system is an important regulator of the stress response, with stress-reducing levels of anandamide. Research also suggests anandamide may be responsible for the “runner’s high,” or feelings of reduced anxiety and calm that can follow a run.
In addition to anandamide, raw cacao also contains phenylalanine, which can increase dopamine, as well as serotonin, which both have an impact on mood. So you can feel relaxed knowing that a dose of dark chocolate may be just what the doctor ordered!
