Alex Ackerley
Feb 12, 20172 min
Calling All Chocoholics-
Looking for something sweet to curb your craving, did you know that chocolate (if the cocoa content is 70% and greater actually offers health benefits? Here’s why…
Chocolate in its original form is a plant, it’s hard to go wrong eating plants
Chocolate is made from cocoa, which is high in polyphenols and packed with natural antioxidants (rich cell protecting natural compounds found in fruits, vegetables, grains and nuts)
Because of chocolate’s high antioxidant count it sits in the same good-for-you category as green tea and blueberries
These high levels of antioxidants may help reduce the risk of many kinds of illnesses from heart disease to cancer
Chocolate has a low glycemic index similar to oatmeal, meaning it won’t cause your blood sugar levels to spike
Chocolate contains a relatively small amount of caffeine, about as much as a cup of decaf coffee, but has a stimulating effect on the mind
The lighter chocolate, the more milk and sugar it contains and lesser of the beneficial cocoa
Since higher % cocoa means more cocoa bean solids, you’ll experience a more intense chocolate flavour, leaving you satisfied on a lesser amount saving you lots of excess calories from being consumed.
When it come to chocolate - Quality over Quantity!!
There’s no getting around it, chocolate is high in fat and calories, but eaten in moderation good quality dark chocolate can easily fit in a healthy balanced diet.
So enjoy – in moderation. Just like everything else in your life!
Looking for ways to add more chocolate into your life?
-Chocolate covered strawberries make a nice valentine treat
-Chocolate Fondue with an array of fresh fruit makes a great dinner party dessert
-Try adding a few cocoa nibs to your breakfast granola
-Try it in sauces such as mole or BBQ
-Purchase a naturally flavoured chocolate protein powder and make yourself a smoothie or add it to your baked goods to up the protein content
-Make healthy homemade granola bars with cocoa nibs or good quality dark chocolate chips
Check our page tomorrow for our tasty chocolate mousse recipe -perfect for your special someone this Valentine's Day or any day