Professionally as a Neuropsychologist I engage in continuing education to keep my skills up to date in many related areas. This pursuit does require me to leave my kitchen from time to time. For several years I have attended the Psychopharmacology Update sponsored by the Nevada Psychiatric Association and the University of Nevada School of Medicine. This is an international conference held in Las Vegas that covers many aspects of psychopathology and its treatment. This year was a day on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as presentations on child and adolescent Bipolar Disorder, Autism, self-injury, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and adolescent brain development. Although I learned a lot about prescription medications, I also had to pursue those that were non-prescription and otherwise readily available. Oh, and did I mention also legal to possess.
With a little research I found that Las Vegas has as last count thirteen chocolatiers and pastry shops. Chocolate has been described as one of nature’s most complex and satisfying substances, with many varied health benefits. Rather than get into the chemistry of chocolate in depth, the Huffington Post article by John Robbins is a great summary of the available knowledge.
Suffice to say that chocolate contains several antioxidants that positively impact cholesterol and blood pressure. Also in chocolate is theobromine which is a mood enhancer that increases serotonin in the brain, as well as phenethylamine that supports that production of pleasure enhancing endorphins.
Using myself as a test subject, along with my trusty research assistant Louise, we sampled the “medications” dispensed by three of Las Vegas’ finest. This included lunch and pastries, as well as French macaroons (nothing like those coconut blobs) at Chef Payard’s Patisserie. Each of the following websites are well worth checking out.
We also visited the wonderfully creative and artistic establishment of Chef Max Brenner. On his menu are such delights as “Illegal Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Pancakes.” I even got the tee-shirt. I did however forget the camera so pictures will have to wait for our next trip.
Finally, there is Chef Jean Philippe’s shop. The chocolate fountain is reportedly 27’ tall and employs 2,100 pounds of white, milk, and dark chocolates. I think that the photos speak for themselves.
When I got home I decided to check my “medicine cabinet.” Luckily it was well stocked with all that I need to keep my mood in check when facing the challenges of daily life. French pharmaceuticals are always the best.
