Why we crave chocolate

With respect to the editorial, “Chocolate cheer” (BDN, April 17-18), on the effects of chocolate on mood, I bring your attention to research reported in the highly respected journal Nature.

Results indicate that three compounds found in chocolate act as cannabinoid mimics. Cannabinoids (THC) are the active drug found in marijuana. The chocolate compounds N-acylethanolamines can act indirectly and directly on the brain’s cannabinoid receptors. All three bind to these receptors just like THC.

Our own nerve cells produce a natural cannabinoid (arachidonoylethanolamine), but is a short-lived compound which is quickly broken down by hydrolysis. These three compounds in chocolate inhibit this hydrolysis, thus resulting in a 50 percent increase in this powerful yet natural pharmacological material.

Just imagine what we are doing to our children every Easter and Halloween. Where are the drug czars or perhaps candy or chocolate czars when you need them most? Many have wondered about the origins of chocolate cravings. The article mentioned above does much to explain this issue.

Where’s my Snickers?

Bill Snow

Sherman