Chocolate is the most craved food among women and men have been known to be pretty obsessed, too! But can a person be addicted to chocolate? When people crave chocolate, or any other specific food, it is not usually born of genuine hunger. Instead, cravings are often related to external stimuli, like a party or holiday, or to emotions, like boredom, anxiety, and sadness. After satiating a craving for chocolate, many people report feeling happier. In many women, the craving occurs on a monthly cycle, which suggests a hormonal basis. This partly explains the cravings common in seasonal affective disorder and pre-menstrual syndrome. The reason for this may be that foods high in sugar and fat, like chocolate, cause a person's brain to release a flood of serotonin, which is a brain chemical responsible for positive thoughts and pleasurable sensations. In addition, Northwestern University Researchers found that self-proclaimed "chocoholics " experienced increased blood flow to certain parts of the brain, particularly the orbital frontal cortex and midbrain. Researchers note that these are the came areas associated with addictive drugs like alcohol and cocaine. And it is also a fact that people who claim to be addicted to chocolate are more likely to be addicted to: alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, and sex. Still, most experts agree that chocolate is not addictive in the true sense of the word, which is to be physically or psychologically dependent on something. After all, the feel-good chemicals present in chocolate are significantly lower than those in less craved foods, like broccoli. It's more likely that chocolate cravings stem from the fact that the treat is highly desirable, yet-for health reasons-should be eaten with restraint. Over-enthusiastic chocolate fans may benefit from analyzing why they want to eat, and then taking steps to address the real problem. For example, a bored person could play cards, while a sad one might call a friend. "Chocoholics" may also consume less if they keep chocolate out of the house, and stock up on healthy, easy-to-grab snacks as replacements. Chocolate fiends may even find that regular exercise reminds them of the chocolate "high," as physical activity releases similar "feel-good" chemicals in the brain. In the end, remember: chocolate won't kill you, but it won't extend your life, either! Consume in moderation.