It's the ultimate indulgence that also can be your worst addiction.
Chocolate often plays a part in our lives unequaled by any other food.
Candy companies thrive on our desire for chocolate, especially to celebrate holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions. The average American consumes 11.7 pounds of chocolate annually. For some, the chocolate craving is simply a result of it being a tasty treat associated with pleasure, even romance. It is used to reward good behavior or win another's favor. But for others, overindulgence can exacerbate a health problem such as high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity, or eating too much can be a sign of some deeper psychological issue such as depression, stress or anxiety.