JOIN OUR FASCINATING EXPERIMENT: Chocolate and Music and the Brain!

At Chocology, we are passionate about chocolate, and it seems we're not alone. On average, Americans consume almost 12 pounds of chocolate each year. That's why we set out on a mission to better understand why we crave chocolate so much and how it affects our brain. Ten years ago, we embarked on this journey, starting with a trip to Columbia University's Zuckerman Institute's Brain Expo.  Join us this week as we continue to explore this connection, will be conducting our own experiment pairing chocolate and music next week.

While it's no secret that chocolate tastes and smells delicious, what many of us may not realize is how our brain's pleasure center reacts to this sweet treat. Chocolate contains over 380 chemicals, each with a unique effect on our brain and nervous system. Here are some of the most notable ones:

• Tryptophan and Serotonin: create feelings of relaxation and well-being.
• Phenylethylamine: stimulates the release of dopamine, the "love chemical," which is associated with pleasure and motivation.
• Flavonols: boost blood flow to key parts of the brain, similar to the effects of a mild aspirin. Found in blueberries, green tea and red wine.

 Chemicals in chocolate interact with our brain's neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and endorphins, resulting in mood elevation, reduced stress, and positive memories associated with chocolate. The brain looks for past experiences when we see or think about chocolate, creating a positive association and a desire to indulge.

Recent studies suggest that music may have an impact on how our brains perceive taste, leading us to think about the relationship between music and chocolate. Would you listen to jazz if it made your chocolate taste better? 

We're excited to continue our research and share our findings with you. Come join us next weekend at the shop to participate in our exclusive experiment:  “How does listening to different music affect the taste of chocolate?”  Be a part of this unique experience and help us uncover new insights into the human brain. This Saturday and Sunday between 1 and 3pm.

Chocology Unlimited

1099 North Country Road

Stony Brook, New York

(631) 901-7151

Share your own fascinating facts or experiences with chocolate and the brain by commenting on our Facebook or Instagram pages.