Page 12 THE VILLADOM TIMES I, II, III & IV • February 9, 2011 The average American eats 11 pounds of chocolate every year, a significant percentage of which is enjoyed around Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day and chocolate have been linked for some time now, but there really hasn’t been any definitive explanation for just why the delicious confection and the day of love seem to go hand in hand. However, the reason people are known to enjoy and crave chocolate may be connected to its chemical components. Fall in love with chocolate this Valentine’s Day Chocolate has been known to affect mood in many ways. It contains 380 known chemicals, which trigger a host of responses in the brain. Chocolate can trigger the production of opioids, which are chemicals, such as those found in opium, that produce a feeling of well-being. Eating chocolate may make a person feel better, which is why chocolate is often a turn-to comfort snack. Chocolate can also increase blood pressure and blood-sugar levels, attributing to feelings of alertness. The caffeine in chocolate also acts as a stimulant. For Your Valentine Don’t forget! Valentine’s Day is Monday, February 14th. However, the reason chocolate may be snatched up come Valentine’s Day is that chocolate appears to contain phenylalanine, the same chemical that is produced by the brain when people fall in love. Doctors think that eating chocolate creates a temporary “love high.” For those giving chocolate for Valentine’s Day, consider dark chocolate, which is high in antioxidants. This chocolate is among the healthier varieties in which to indulge. Creations By Fran Flowers & More... � The Freshest Roses � Beautiful Mixed Bouquets � Handmade Chocolates � Valentine Gifts 14 Central Avenue, Midland Park 201-444-8366 or 201-444-9474 Open Mon-Fri 9-6, Saturday 9-5 For Valentine’s Day Full Service Florist Extended Hours Feb. 14 ��������������������� ������������ ������������������������� ������������� ������������������� �������������������������� ���������������������� ����������������������������� ������������ Bring in n, Open Su Feb. 13 9- 4 10% off this ad fo r ������������������������������ �������������������������������������� � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � ��� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � �� � � � � � � � � � � ��� � �� � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � ����������������������������������������������������������������� � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � ��������������� � � ��� � � � �� � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � from the staff of � � � � � �� � � � � � � ��� � � �� � � � � � � � � ��������������������������������������� �������������������������������������� 2-9-11 karen/Janine