Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, has been investigated for its potential effects on mood and emotional well-being. The scientific interest stems from chocolate's content of psychoactive compounds such as theobromine, caffeine, phenylethylamine, and magnesium, all of which may influence brain chemistry. Additionally, chocolate consumption can stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin, neurotransmitters associated with improved mood. Several small-scale studies and reviews suggest that chocolate may have mild, short-term mood-enhancing effects, likely due to both its chemical composition and sensory pleasure.

However, the evidence supporting chocolate for treating or supporting mood swings is limited and inconsistent. Most research points to transient improvements in mood after chocolate consumption rather than significant or sustained effects on mood disorders or mood swings. Some studies indicate that habitual chocolate consumption is associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms, though causality is unclear. Overall, while there is a plausible biochemical basis and some empirical support for chocolate's mood-boosting effects, the evidence is not robust enough to recommend chocolate as a treatment for mood swings. Most health authorities do not recognize chocolate as a therapeutic option for mood disorders.