Candy and Psychology

The Psychological Benefits of Candy

Just the taste alone of candy can be reason enough to indulge. Luckily, you have even more reasons to enjoy that piece of candy: Candy provides a host of psychological benefits as well.

So, grab a sweet treat and read on to learn some candy health facts that will make you enjoy your candy break even more.

  Boost Your Energy Level

Feeling a little sluggish? A delicious piece of chocolate could be your perfect solution to low energy levels.

Cacao — the tree that grows the pods containing the beans we process into cocoa powder, cocoa butter and chocolate — has high levels of theobromine. Theobromine is a stimulant like caffeine. The difference is its effect on the central nervous system is milder than caffeine’s. Eating some chocolate, especially chocolate that still has cacao solids present, provides a nice boost to your energy level.

The best part is it won’t make your heart race or spike your anxiety level as caffeine does. It’s a nice pick-me-up!

  Boost Your Cognitive Functioning

In addition to theobromine, chocolate also contains an amino acid that’s a part of the neurotransmitter dopamine. It gives chocolate the power to help streamline the signals firing between your brain’s nerve cells. You’ll think quicker on your feet!

Any candy contains sugar, which provides a boost for your brain. A bit of sugar can help improve your focus, so you can power through the task at hand. For even more focus, opt for a peppermint variety. Not only will your breath be fresh, but you’ll also be more alert with a higher level of concentration.

So, the next time you’re about to tackle a big project, grab a piece of candy. Skip the sugar-free version and go straight for the brain-boosting good stuff.

  Boost Your Mood

If you’re feeling a little blah, a piece of chocolate can pep up your mood. It contains serotonin, a natural antidepressant, and phenylethylamine, which also improves mood.

Feeling overwhelmed? Stress can do some major damage to the body. One of the easiest ways to battle stress is chewing on a piece of gum. The natural repetition of chewing can lower your nervous tension while releasing mood-boosting serotonin. It also lights up key parts of your brain — the parts that are responsible for self-control and attention, while decreasing the activity of the parts that regulate pain processing. So, chewing gum can actually make you feel better!

Let’s not forget the sheer pleasure chocolate, candy and gum bring. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you can feel good about.

  Boost Your Willpower

It’s a common misconception that if you eat sugary treats, it means you lack willpower. Turns out, if you eat candy and chocolate, you’re smart because it can restore your willpower!

Studies have shown that people who enjoy some sugar are more likely to delay gratification. They have the willpower boost they need to see their decision through to the end.

What Are You Waiting For? Grab a Piece of Candy Now!

If you needed an excuse to indulge in some candy, you now have four. Take that much-needed break and enjoy a piece of delicious candy, then reap the many psychological benefits that come with it!