Spirit of Bonhomie - Day sixteen
Chocolate covered anything......
The history of chocolate is a fascinating journey that spans centuries and cultures. Let’s explore how this beloved treat evolved from ancient Mesoamerica to the universally loved commodity it is today
Ancient Origins
The creation of chocolate can be traced back to the ancient Maya civilization and even earlier to the Olmecs of southern Mexico.
Around 1500 B.C., the Olmecs used cacao to create a ceremonial drink. Although they left no written history, traces of theobromine (the stimulant compound found in chocolate and tea) were discovered in their pottery vessels.
Mayan Chocolate:
The Maya revered chocolate. They consumed it during celebrations, important transactions, and ceremonies.
Mayan chocolate was thick, frothy, and often combined with chili peppers, honey, or water. It was enjoyed by almost everyone, not just the wealthy.
Aztec Admiration for Cacao:
The Aztecs believed that cacao was a gift from their gods.
They enjoyed hot or cold, spiced chocolate beverages in ornate containers.
Cacao beans were considered more valuable than gold in Aztec culture.
The Aztec ruler Montezuma II allegedly drank gallons of chocolate each day for energy and as an aphrodisiac.
European Evolution:
After its popularity in European courts and colonial America, chocolate evolved into the sweet, rich-tasting treat we know today.
From bitter beverages to delightful confections, chocolate’s journey reflects cultural shifts, trade routes, and technological advancements.
So how good is chocolate for us? Lets look at neuroscience and our relationship with chocolate:
Cognitive Benefits of Cocoa:
A systematic review of the literature suggests that the molecules contained in cocoa may reduce cognitive decline.
Daily chocolate consumption has been inversely associated with the risk of death from all causes.
The cognitive benefits are attributed to the main compounds found in cocoa, particularly epicatechin, and their microbiota-induced gut metabolites.
Studies on Cognitive Performance:
Cross-sectional studies involving over two hundred thousand subjects examined cognitive functions using neuropsychological tests.
The maximal beneficial effect on cognitive performance occurred at a daily intake of 10 grams of chocolate.
All cognitive test scores were significantly higher in those who consumed chocolate at least once per week.
Reduced Risk of Cognitive Decline:
The lower risk of cognitive decline was statistically significant for levels of chocolate corresponding to an average weekly intake of about three pieces of a chocolate bar, one chocolate snack, or one tablespoon of cocoa powder.
Chocolate consumption was also inversely associated with the risk of death from all causes.
Epicatechin and Brain Blood Flow:
The cognitive benefits of epicatechin in cocoa powder may be due to mechanisms of vasodilation and increased brain blood flow.
Dopamine Release and Pleasure:
Chocolate triggers the brain’s reward centers, such as the ventral striatum, through the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and endorphins.
These chemicals create feelings of pleasure, reward, and even euphoria.
It’s this activation of the reward pathway that contributes to the addictive potential of chocolate.
Antioxidants and Brain Health:
Raw cacao beans contain many antioxidants, which help prevent damage to cells.
Although the process of turning cacao beans into chocolate reduces some of these compounds, a small amount of antioxidants remains.
These antioxidants may contribute to improved cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health.
So today’s bonhomie is simply delicious, have some chocolate, share some chocolate, smell some chocolate, wash with chocolate. Just enjoy the chocolate today in all it’s glory.
Moderate chocolate consumption, particularly dark chocolate rich in bioactive compounds, has positive effects on brain health. So, enjoy your chocolate mindfully—it’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also for your brain! 🍫🧠🌟
He showed the words “chocolate cake” to a group of Americans and recorded their word associations. “Guilt” was the top response. If that strikes you as unexceptional, consider the response of French eaters to the same prompt: “celebration”
