Chocolate

While I should have been working this morning, I came across some intersting infromation. Many people think chocolate contains caffeine. Apparently it doesn't. It contains a chemical very simalar called theobromine.



The effects are also a bit different and may explain why people go to chocolate as a comfort food rather then a can of Jolt. I think the site I got this info from may be a bit skewed toward chocolate, but interesting info none the less:

Theobromine                            Caffeine
gentle                                 intense
mild effect                            strong effect
very slow onset                        fast acting
long lasting                           rapid dissipation
50% in bloodstream after 6 to 10 hrs   50% in bloodstream after 2 to 5 hrs
increases feeling of well being        increases alertness
mild antidepressant                    increases emotional stress
gentle, smooth, sensual stimulation    jagged, nervous stimulation
stimulates cardiovascular system       stimulates cardiovascular system
stimulates muscular system             stimulates respiratory system
mild effect on central nervous system  strong effect on central nervous system
almost no one is allergic              many people allergic
not addictive                          physically addictive
no withdrawal symptoms                 many proven withdrawal symptoms
mild diuretic                          extreme diuretic stimulates the kidneys
                                         requires large intake of fluids to balance 
                                         the diuretic effect