Cacao is more than just an ingredient in chocolates and desserts. It's a nutrient-dense food containing compounds that profoundly influence our brain chemistry, promoting feelings of calm, joy, peace, and awareness. This unique state of mind, which is focused yet calm and joyful, is what we call the "Monk Mind." Let's delve into how the various chemicals in cacao help us achieve this serene mental state.
Theobromine: Gentle Stimulant with a Calming Effect
Theobromine is one of the primary compounds found in cacao. Similar to caffeine in its molecular structure, but much milder on the nervous system, theobromine acts as a gentle stimulant. It enhances alertness, focus and energy without causing the jitteriness and energy crash often associated with caffeine. The effects of theobromine are also longer lasting than that of caffeine. Theobromine expands blood vessels, thereby improving blood circulation and oxygen flow, contributing to better cognition and feelings of calm and relaxation. The result is a sustained and gentle focus that helps you go about your day with a sense of calm.
Phenylethylamine (PEA): The Love Chemical
PEA, also referred to as ‘the Love Chemical’, is present in cacao and could explain the connection often made between chocolate and love. Studies show that people in love have higher levels of PEA, leading to the euphoric feeling associated with being in love. PEA also performs a host of other functions. It stimulates the release and sustenance of dopamine and serotonin, which are both referred to as “happy hormones” as they play a huge role in mood enhancement and regulation, making PEA a natural anti-depressant. PEA contributes to improved energy levels, better focus, motivation, brain function and problem-solving abilities. So, healthy levels of PEA contribute to overall emotional and mental wellbeing.
Anandamide: The Bliss Molecule
Another substance naturally present in Cacao is “Anandamide”, a neurotransmitter that derives its name from the Sanskrit word “Ananda”, meaning “bliss”. Anandamide has the function of binding with the cannabinoid receptors in our brain, (the same receptors in the brain as THC, the active component of cannabis binds with). However, the effects of Anandamide are way milder and lend a sense of joy. Interestingly, our brain also produces anandamide, which however is broken down rather quickly by an enzyme known as hydrolase. Cacao also contains substances that slow the process of breaking down of Anandamide, thereby prolonging its effect.
Tryptophan: Precursor to Serotonin
Cacao is rich in tryptophan, an essential amino acid that triggers the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter crucial for regulating mood. Healthy levels of serotonin are associated with feelings of happiness and reduced anxiety. The serotonin is also a precursor of melatonin, the hormone that is responsible for regulating our sleep – wake cycle. When it is dark outside, the brain converts serotonin into melatonin, signalling to the body that it's time to sleep. Consuming cacao can help increase serotonin production, leading to an improved mood, a sense of tranquillity, and a more regulated sleep-wake cycle.
Flavonoids: Antioxidants that Boost Brain Function
Cacao is one of the richest sources of antioxidants. Flavonoids (a type of antioxidant), especially epicatechin, catechin and flavanols are found abundantly in cacao. These antioxidants have numerous health benefits, including improved brain function. Flavonoids enhance blood flow to the brain and the heart, boost cognitive performance, and protect cells and neurons from damage. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce stress and promote mental clarity, contributing to a calm and peaceful state of mind.
Magnesium: The Relaxation Mineral
Cacao is an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral that is essential for a wide range of bodily functions, particularly in supporting nerve and muscle health. It helps to alleviate muscle cramps and reduce fatigue, making it especially soothing for physical aches and pains, tension or discomfort. Magnesium is also known for its ability to counterbalance stress and anxiety by regulating the body's stress response. It works by reducing the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, helping to promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
Polyphenols: Mood Enhancers
Polyphenols, another group of powerful antioxidants found in cacao, have been shown to reduce the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase the levels of endorphins and serotonin, leading to improved mood. Polyphenols also strengthen the immune system and protect cells from oxidative damage, thereby reducing aging and chronic disease risks.
Caffeine: A natural stimulant
Cacao contains 0.1-0.3% percent of caffeine which is a natural stimulant and helps with energy lift and increased mental clarity. Though minute, it adds to the alerting and wakeful properties of cacao and enhances physical performance.
Conclusion:
The rich array of compounds in cacao makes it a unique and powerful ally in promoting mental well-being. Theobromine, phenylethylamine, anandamide, tryptophan, flavonoids, magnesium, polyphenols and caffeine work together to improve focus and brain function, enhance mood, reduce anxiety, and promote feelings of calm, relaxation and joy. By incorporating cacao into your diet, you can tap into its natural mood and brain boosting properties. So, make yourself a cup of cacao and let its chemistry lead you into the state of “Monk Mind” – alert yet tranquil.
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