World Chocolate Day 2023: Know All About The Date, History, And Health Benefits Of This Pure Delight

World Chocolate Day, first observed in 2009, commemorates the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550.

(Representational Image)

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New Delhi: World Chocolate Day is celebrated every year on July 7. On this day, chocolate becomes a symbol of joy, guilt-free indulgence, and celebration, overcoming ethnic borders and bringing people together in a shared moment of delight. It's a day to celebrate the rich history of chocolates and the sheer joy it brings to our lives.

World Chocolate Day: History

World Chocolate Day, first observed in 2009, commemorates the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550. Prior to 1550, chocolate was only available in a few locations in South and Central America, such as Mexico. Foreign adventurers, on the other hand, wished to introduce this rare delight to the European continent.

The Aztec ruler delivered a chocolate-based drink named Xocolatl to Spanish adventurer Hernan Cortes in 1519, who in turn brought the beverage back to Europe and sweetened it with sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Speaking of solid chocolates, they became popular in the 1800s. As a result, chocolate's appeal spread throughout Europe, and it finally became the beloved dessert we know today.  

Health Benefits Of Chocolates:

Although widely regarded as an indulgent delight, chocolate has garnered a reputation for its ability to enhance one's mood and satisfy the palate. However, this delectable treat offers more than just a sweet taste. Surprisingly, chocolate possesses a wealth of health benefits which lies in its concentration of cocoa.

Listed below are some of the health benefits of chocolates shared by Dietician Umang Malhotra:

• Cocoa beans majorly contain three kinds of polyphenols and flavonoids namely catechins, anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins. Flavonoids, which are antioxidants that combat free radicals in the body, are abundant in cocoa beans. These antioxidants help to decrease oxidative stress, which is correlated with numerous chronic illnesses such as neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and heart disease.

​It has been stated that the benefits of dark chocolate are more than milk chocolate due to the presence of a higher percentage of cocoa, flavonoids and theobromine.

• Cocoa induces many positive health benefits. For instance, effects on blood pressure, vascular function and antioxidant effects.
• A meta-analysis also stated that chocolate with high content of cocoa reduces diastolic and systolic blood pressure, increases flow-mediated vasodilation and reduced serum insulin levels by activating the endothelial NO synthase.
• Studies have also reported that a daily intake of 20g of high cocoa chocolate for 30 days resulted in the improvisation of vascular function by promoting vascular relaxation and reducing central brachial artery pressure.
• ​In type 2 diabetes, the intake of cocoa-rich chocolate improves glucose homeostasis by improving gut absorption and slowing down carbohydrate digestion. Flavonoids present in cocoa improve insulin sensitivity by regulating glucose transport and insulating signalling proteins in insulin-sensitive tissues thus, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes can be lowered.​

"The ingestion of chocolate is linked with maintaining the gut microbiota due to the metabolization of procyanidins that are present in cocoa. The constructive effects of cocoa flavonoids on the immune system include reduction in mediator release, restoration of T-helper 1 and T-helper 2 cells, and suppression of IgE production. Furthermore, chocolate possesses organoleptic characteristics and properties that act as an aphrodisiac and an antidepressant, expanding its effects beyond the cardiovascular system. metabolic diseases, CNS diseases, and psychological profiles.", Umang went on to conclude.

Chocolate- The Ultimate Mood Enhancer

Chocolate’s indulgent allure extends far beyond its delectable taste and it has been revered for centuries as a catalyst for uplifting our spirits and invoking sensations of joy and pleasure. At the heart of chocolate’s enchanting effects lie a variety of specific compounds that contribute to its mood-enhancing properties.

Phenylethylamine, for instance, is a natural compound found in chocolate that stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain, fostering a sense of euphoria and well-being.

Additionally, chocolate contains anandamide, often referred to as the ‘bliss molecule,’ which interacts with receptors in the brain to amplify feelings of joy and relaxation.

"Consumption of pure couverture chocolate always increases feelings of pleasure and enjoyment owing to the release of  dopamine, a feel-good chemical and endorphins which reduces stress and pain levels.", stated Abhinav Kumar, co-founder, Craft Coffee

Thus, "Chocolate is not something you can take or leave, something you like only moderately. You don’t like chocolate. You don’t even love chocolate. Chocolate is something you have an affair with! It’s a sheer pleasure, a reminder of happiness & joy," said Vikram Khinwasara, co-founder, The Yellow Straw.