A Sweet Treat for Valentine’s Day

Did you know that people have been exchanging heart-shaped candy for Valentine’s Day since the 1800s? This popular tradition continues to this day as couples all over the world express their love for each other with tokens of chocolate and other sweets. There are many ways that you can celebrate on February 14^th, whether that be with chocolate or another sweet treat, there is no wrong way to celebrate!

While many people consider chocolate to be a dessert, it is actually quite nutritious. Chocolate has a rich nutrient profile and is full of many vitamins and minerals. What is so great about chocolate is you can enjoy it in numerous ways and still reap its health benefits.

If you are looking for a way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the added sugar, there are many other treats that you can try. Many foods, like fruits, can be added to dishes to add that extra dose of sweetness.

4 More Reasons to Eat Chocolate

Chocolate is not only delicious, but it’s full of nutrients. Dark chocolate is better when it comes to benefiting from all of cocoa’s health benefits. The more cocoa in the chocolate, the more benefits! If you needed another reason to eat chocolate, here are 4:

Antioxidants: Chocolate contains numerous antioxidants, like polyphenols, which can reduce oxidative stress. Antioxidants prevent damage caused to cells by free radicals.

Flavanols: This chemical found in dark chocolate has been shown to stimulate the production of nitric oxide. This compound is a gas that improves blood flow and relaxes blood vessels, thus reducing blood pressure.

Iron, Copper, and Magnesium: A small serving of chocolate is rich in these minerals! These micronutrients are used by your body to carry out important bodily functions.

Prebiotic Fiber: Cocoa is considered a prebiotic which is needed to feed the good bacteria in your body. The bacteria in your gut produce nutrients that keep your digestive tract healthy.

5 Sweet Treats Without the Sugar

If you or your significant other are trying to limit your sugar intake there are numerous treats you can make that have zero added sugars. Here are some of my favorites:

Peanut-butter Fudge: Not only can you make this delicious fudge sugar-free, but you can also make it dairy-free by using almond milk.

Frozen Yogurt Bites: These are so simple to make and inexpensive too! Choose your favorite yogurt and top it off with some fruit in a nice bize-size portion.

Coconut Cookies: Adding bananas that are ripe can add a whole new level of sweetness to these tasty cookies.

Instant Apple Crisp: Granola, cinnamon, and apples, can you think of a better combination! Combine and heat these ingredients for a belly-warming goodness.

Chocolate Truffles: Cocoa and avocado make the perfect pairing and has a flavor profile that can be used in numerous recipes. Chocolate truffles are one of my favorites.

Whether buying from a store or homemade, don’t miss out on celebrating Valentine’s Day. Grab a sweat treat and enjoy!

Your Turn to Action: What are you going to make to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Let me know in the comments below.