Could Chocolate be the Ultimate Stress Buster?

We’re all trying to achieve a good work-life balance but for some, dealing with the stresses of modern life can lead to unhealthy choices. Comfort eating is a common means to tackle workplace stress and yet turning to alcohol and unhealthy foods could be having a detrimental effect on our overall wellbeing. With almost 10 million working days lost to stress each year, how can we combat the strain of working in our fast-paced, constantly-connected digital world whilst not putting any further pressure on our health? Could chocolate could be the answer? A clinical study into the effects of chocolate intake on perceived stress measured a group of 60 participants' stress response after eating 40g of chocolate a day for two weeks. It concluded that dark chocolate lowered the body's release of the stress hormone, cortisol, to participants' heart and circulatory system. Repeated studies have reached a similar conclusion. In short, chocolate can be a healthy (and enjoyable) way to tackle stress - that's good news both for the workforce and for employers! Choose good quality dark chocolate and the high cocoa content will deliver your chocolate fix in just a few bites. Not only will you feel less stressed about work but thanks to the increase in ‘happiness chemicals’ - endorphin and serotonin - you’ll benefit from a generally improved mood too! Need gifts advice? Call us today on 0121 314 3472 or request a quote.