Yummyyyyy Chocolates

History of chocolates:

1. The origin of the word “chocolate” most likely comes from the Aztec word “xocoatl” which refers to the bitter drink the native peoples concocted from cacao beans.
2. The botanical name of cocoa’s plant is “Theobroma Cocoa” meaning “Food of the Gods”.
3. The cocoa beans were used as currency by Aztecs.
4. The cocoa beans were used to pay tax or “tribute “as they called it by Aztecs.
5. It helps the body produce endorphins, which stimulate a feeling of pleasure and well-being.
6. It contains the hormone, serotonin, which helps reduce the symptoms of depression.
7. Roughly 2/3rds of the world’s cocoa is produced in Western Africa.
8. The Aztecs associated chocolates with the Goddess of Fertility.
9. Cocoa, from which chocolate is created, is said to have originated in the Amazon at least 4,000 years ago.
10. Chocolate was a secret that Spain managed to keep from the rest of the world for almost 100 years!
11. The first machine-made chocolate was produced in Barcelona in 1780.
12. Antoine Brutus Menier built the first industrial manufacturing facility for chocolate in 1800

Health benefits:

1. Chocolate is made from plants, which means it contains many of the health benefits of dark vegetables.
2. Dark chocolate contains a large number of antioxidants (nearly 8 times the number found in strawberries).
3. Dark Chocolate with Antioxidants Boost your immune system.
4. Eating chocolate releases endorphins in the brain, which gives a feeling of pleasure.
5. Chocolates consists of oleic acid which a healthy monounsaturated fat that is also found in olive oil.
6. The smell of chocolate may increase theta brain waves, resulting in relaxation.
7. The carbohydrates in chocolate raise serotonin levels in the brain, resulting in a sense of well-being.

Beauty benefits:

1. Chocolate is a good moisturizer.
2. It rejuvenates the skin.
3. It is also used to smooth wrinkles due to its anti-oxidant properties.
4. It is a good hair conditioner.