The Sweet Truth: Fascinating Facts About Chocolate - Page 8
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The Sweet Truth: Fascinating Facts About Chocolate

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Fact 7: Chocolate Can Help Soothe a Cough 8/9

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Fact 7: Chocolate Can Help Soothe a Cough

It's scientifically proven: chocolate makes you happy! Various compounds found in chocolate, such as theobromine, anandamide, phenylethylamine, and tryptophan, have mood-enhancing effects. However, since the doses of these substances in chocolate are actually too small to have a significant impact, it's believed that psychological factors also play a role. When we eat chocolate, our brain's reward system is activated, leading to the release of endorphins and dopamine.

No wonder we reach for chocolate when we're feeling down. And now you know: there's no reason to feel guilty about enjoying a piece of chocolate.

 

  • Usmani, O. S., Belvisi, M. G., Patel, H. J., Crispino, N., Birrell, M. A., Korbonits, M., Korbonits, D., Barnes, P. J., & Chung, K. F. (2005). Theobromine inhibits sensory nerve activation and cough. FASEB Journal, 19(2), 231-233. DOI: 10.1096/fj.04-2040com

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Chef Tips and Tricks

You're watching: Chocolate Beetroot Cake
Chocolate Beetroot Cake

 Looking for something indulgent? These velvety chocolate beetroot cakes will hit the spot. 

INGREDIENTS

  •  1.3 cups beetroot
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 4/5 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • Melted dark chocolate

METHOD

  1. Preheat the oven to 350° F. 
  2. Put the beetroot, eggs, oil and lemon juice in a food processor, and blend until smooth.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar.
  4. Add the blended beetroot mixture, and mix until smooth. 
  5. Add the baking powder and mix until fully incorporated. 
  6. Pour the batter into silicone cake moulds. 
  7. Bake for 30 minutes, or until you a pick comes out clean. 
  8. Top with melted dark chocolate, and enjoy!