Enjoy This Not-So-Sweet Indulgence

It’s February, and this month is all about matters of the heart–from National Love Your Pet Day to Valentine’s Day.

“Enjoy dark chocolate to soothe your sweet tooth and support your heart and brain.”

And that brings us to the topic of chocolate–one of our favorite guilty pleasures! In fact, we spend nearly $20 million on this food during Valentine’s week. And why not, it’s the ultimate feel-good indulgence!

But science is now telling us this food–especially the dark version–could be good for our health. Dark chocolate contains a class of nutrients called flavonoids. These naturally-occurring chemicals have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Dark chocolate’s consumption has been linked to lowering blood pressure, supporting heart and brain health, and possibly lowering the risk of diabetes.

But like all desserts, it is possible to get too much of a good thing.

So here’s the skinny on dark chocolate consumption: Purchase a product that has 70% cocoa (with a lower percentage, you won’t get the health benefits; a higher percentage delivers a more bitter taste) and limit portion size. Break off one small square (about 1.5″ by 1.5″, only 62 calories and 3 grams of sugar), then re-wrap the rest of the package and put it back on the shelf. Now you’re ready to sit down and thoroughly savor this rich, decadent reward!

So send yourself some love wrapped in a chocolate hug; it’s the perfect way to celebrate the end of a special day!

Exerpt from Empowering You, Transforming Transforming Lives, #1 International Best Selling Book, Lisa is a co-author (RHG Media Productions, 2018).

For additional heart-healthy lifestyle ideas, give me a call!
We can discuss some practical tips and discover if any of my programs or classes are a good fit for your friends or family.
 If you’d like to schedule that call with me, just CLICK THIS LINK, and let me know in the message that you would like a 1-on-1 call with me right away and I will be in touch to schedule that—oh, and leave me your phone number in there too since email is not as reliable as it used to be! Thanks.

Lisa Teresi Harris is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Personal Trainer, and author of the book Building Your Enduring Fitness. A certified Geri-Fit Instructor, she helps Boomers and seniors to regain and keep muscle strength, mobility, and energy. 
Contact Lisa to inquire about a customized, in-home fitness program for you or a loved one.

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