4 Reasons to Eat Chocolate!

Did you know that cocoa seeds were once used as a form of currency? This should come as no surprise given the divine foods that they are turned into. There are so many ways to enjoy chocolate, from dark to milk chocolate, there is no wrong way to eat it. Grab a bar of your favorite chocolate for the National Celebration of Chocolate Month this February.

Chocolate is not only just a delicious treat, it can also be a nutritious food, especially dark chocolate. Chocolate contains polyphenols, which is a micronutrient your body uses to help fight off certain diseases.

While you may be the type of person who enjoys eating a chocolate bar as is, there are many wonderful recipes that have chocolate as the special ingredient. From brownies to cake, there is no wrong way to eat chocolate.

4 Reasons to Indulge in Some Chocolate

If you’re like me, you don’t need a special reason to eat chocolate. However, if you need a little more convincing, here are just some of the reasons to pick up a bar today:

Dark chocolate contains a variety of antioxidants that may help the cardiovascular system by reducing blood pressure.
The smell of chocolate increases theta brain waves, which can help trigger relaxation.
The flavanols in chocolate may help improve cognitive function and prevent cognitive decline.
Both milk and dark chocolate consumption has been associated with a reduction in perceived stress.

Recipes That You’ll Love

The best thing about chocolate is that it goes with nearly everything. Most foods taste just that much better when some chocolate is thrown in. Here are just some of my favorite recipes with chocolate:

Chocolate Cake: You can never go wrong with a nice moist cake.
Banana Chocolate “Ice-cream” Pops: A twist on bananas that will make you feel like a little kid.
Brownies: A classic dessert for a reason, add a scoop of ice-cream for some extra fun.
Trail Mix: No food is complete without a dash of chocolate, trail mix included.

If you’re hungry for some more chocolate recipes, check out my most recent cookbook, Enjoying Food Peace: Recipes and Intuitive Eating Wisdom to Nourish Your Body and Mind, which you can purchase here if you haven’t already.

Your turn to action: How are you going to celebrate chocolate this month? Let me know in the comments below.