Chocolate the love-hate relationship
I’d like to talk a bit about one of our favorite VD treats……CHOCOLATE!
We love to get chocolate from our sweety at this time of year, actually almost any time of year for some of us.
Chocolate is often considered a "bad" thing to eat, but a strained relationship with it can be harmful.
Labeling any food as completely off-limits usually results in increased cravings for that food and guilt when you eventually do eat it.
Yes, chocolate can have lots of calories, sugar, and fats, but it also has some positive attributes.
Especially Dark chocolate!
70% or higher cacao content Dark chocolate contains high levels of powerful antioxidants and some beneficial macronutrients.
It can have many positive health benefits to consider.
Increases heart health
Reduces the chance of stroke
Balances the immune system
Combats diabetes
Improves brain function
Reduces stress
Improves Athletic performance
As with all foods, please consider the risk vs the benefits.
There are still health risks associated with the use of chocolate. Some people may experience:
Weight gain
Migrants
Poor Bone health
Increased caffeine intake
Increased Sugar intake
Increased levels of Cadmium and lead
Please be sure to buy from a reputable source and read the labels. Not all chocolates are created equally.
Savor it and enjoy it with purpose and intention. Moderation is the key.
Enjoy and be happy, let go of the guilt. AND keep exercising for your health and peace of mind.
