Celebrating chocolate’s mood enhancing effects this World Chocolate Day

Photo credits to Ziyaad Plaatjes

If you’ve ever experienced a chocolate craving, you are not alone. They happen to the best of us. And the cause? It is likely to be attributed to the confectionary’s mood enhancing benefits. 

In fact, cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate, is what is responsible for releasing feel good hormones like dopamine and serotonin. And in order to enjoy the joy filled effects of eating chocolate, one only needs to consume a few grams. 

Scientists report that dark chocolate - in particular 70% to 85% chocolate - improves mood when consumed daily. Smelling chocolate scents also helps to relieve stress and reduce anxiety whether it is done before enjoying a chocolate dessert or using chocolate scented lotions and beauty products. 

To celebrate chocolate’s mood enhancing effects, Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront Executive Sous Chef, Bianca Beukes has put together an uplifting Recipe for delicious Chocolate Cremeux Brownies to make at home.