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Pharmacology/opioids and chocolate

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Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 4/29/2009


Question
Is it true that opioids are found in raw chocolate nibs? And what is the percentage found if it is?

Answer
Dear Brenda

As far as know there are no opioids in chocolate. However, substances in chocolate stimulate the release of our natural opioid, endorphins, in the brain. Ths contributes to the pleasure of eating chocolate and its slightly addictive properties. See the movie or read the book, "Chocolat" and you'll see what I mean.

Regards

Dr Alan Galbraith  

Pharmacology

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Dr Alan Galbraith

Expertise

I can answer most questions on most drugs. Answers can be given in either technical or layperson terminology. My main areas of interest are psychiatric, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular drugs.

Experience

I have been a university lecturer/head of department for almost thirty years, but am now retired. My research interests were alcohol, smoking and cardiovascular disease. I am already a well established and highly rated expert in the pharmacy section of this site.

Publications
Principal author of "Fundamentals of Pharmacology" Editions 1-4 published between 1994 and 2004 by Pearson Education, Australia. Author of the 5th edition published 2007. Author of many scientific papers.

Education/Credentials
BSc(Hons);MSc;PhD;HECert

Awards and Honors
The 4th edition of my textbook was awarded the the Educational Book of the Year Award in Australia.

Past/Present Clients
See my profile in the pharmacy section.

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