Rapid Walk Cures Chocoholics

Chocoholics and other addictive snackers may find relief from a simple
15 minute brisk walk. That is what University of Exeter researchers have discovered by conducting studies of 25 zealous chocolate eaters.

The study participants were 'starved' of chocolate for three whole days and then requested randomly to either have a brisk walk or take a rest. Then came the tests. They were asked to participate in a variety of activities that would normally bring on the craving for chocolate, including actually opening a chocolate.

"Our ongoing work consistently shows that brief bouts of physical activity reduce cigarette cravings, but this is the first study to link exercise to reduced chocolate cravings," said Professor Adrian Taylor from The University of Exeter. He then said "Neuroscientists have suggested common processes in the reward centres of the brain between drug and food addictions, and it may be that exercise effects brain chemicals that help to regulate mood and cravings. This could be good news for people who struggle to manage their cravings for sugary snacks and want to lose weight."

Professor Taylor described how a sedentary lifestyle tends to encourage people to reach for snacks such a chocolate in order to try and create a more pleasant mood. This of course is an artificial mood creating behaviour which is easily replaced if a person engages in short periods of activity that tend to create the same effect.

"This research furthers our understanding of the complex physical, psychological and emotional relationship we have with food," said Professor Taylor, who concluded his remarks by suggesting that "While enjoying the occasional chocolate bar is fine, in time, regular eating may lead to stronger cravings during stress and when it is readily available. Recognising what causes us to eat high energy snacks, even if we have plans to not do so, can be helpful."