Chocoholics Rejoice

Its officially your day, chocoholics! Despite some people being sensitive or even allergic to chocolate, it is one of the most common food cravings. There is little scientific evidence to suggest that dark chocolate can back up any claim of improved health or disease prevention. But, it may have antidepressant properties due to a neurotransmitter and mood elevator. What dark chocolate does have, is many important minerals that are essential to the functioning of our body. In 100g (3.5oz), or an entire bar of Lindt dark chocolate there is (here’s the bad news) 80g of caffeine, 46% of our daily carbohydrate intake, and 43% of our fat intake. BUT, it also has 8% of our protein, 92% of iron, 64% of magnesium, 44% phosphorus, 35% of zinc, 29% of B6 and 15% of potassium. Dark chocolate contains phytonutrients, which can have antioxidants properties, they can also help protect us from disease and help support our immune system. Over consumption, yes the whole bar would be considered over consumption, of this tasty treat is definitely not recommended but enjoyed in small quantities your body can benefit from all the fantastic nutrients in dark chocolate. Another thing to consider, is where your chocolate is where it is coming from. I encourage people to seek out Fair Trade chocolate because when we buy Fair Trade chocolate we know it is produced under ethical standards and priced to give farmers and labourers a living and sustainable wage. Fair Trade also ensures it was grown without child or forced labour. Here is a list of some Fair Trade chocolate bars that you may want to try:

1. Alter EcoFoods

2. Theo Chocolates

3. eatingEvolved

4. Sweetriot

5. Blacks and Greens

Here is a fantastic recipe for raw chocolate brownies!!

Happy eating friends!! For any help with health, wellness and fitness I am here to help!!

All the best,

Sarah