Chocolate: Can It Really Be Good For You?
We’ve said it before and we’ll keep saying it – life is all about balance, and that means treating yourself occasionally. Chocolate is the world’s favourite treat: 7.6 million tonnes of retail chocolate was consumed worldwide in 2017; with Switzerland leading the globe. In fact, Europe accounts for almost half of the world’s chocolate consumption and global sales reached $101 billion in 2015.
Cocoa has been farmed for over 3,000 years and is thought to have originated in Central America. Now, three-quarters of the world’s cocoa is produced in Africa. Of course, chocolate comes in many shapes and sizes and everyone has a preference over dark, milk and white (although white chocolate isn’t technically chocolate at all!).
Not all chocolate is created equal and dark chocolate is the queen when we talk about the health benefits of chocolate. Dark chocolate is classified as chocolate that has a cocoa percentage of over 70%. It’s also worth noting that when we talk about health benefits and chocolate, we’re talking about consuming a couple of squares a day – not a couple of bars!
A recent study suggested that chocolate consumption could be associated with increased cognitive performance. They also noted that eating chocolate regularly may potentially help the decline of your cognitive function as you age. Plenty of other studies have pointed to a myriad of other health benefits from eating chocolate: weight loss, better circulation, a boost in mood, heart health and many more.
So with all those positives, you can take your sweet tooth to the kitchen and try some of our awesome chocolate recipes:
Fruit & Nut Chocolate Slab
Give your favourite chocolate bar a nutritious upgrade with added protein powder, nuts, fruit & nut-butter!
Check out the recipe, here.
Chocolate Coated Fat Balls
Fatballs are made by blending high-fat ingredients together such as nut butter, coconut oil and MCT (medium chain triglycerides) oil. As with everything, they should be eaten in moderation, however, they are a great satiating snack that is low in sugar and high in nutrients!
Check out the recipe, here.
Triple Chocolate Shake
Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate, this shake is pure indulgence! Try freezing for a pretty fab ice cream too.
Check out the recipe, here.
Chocolate Sandwich Cakes
These individual chocolate sandwich cakes are super gooey, indulgent and everything you would ever look for in a delicious sweet treat.
Check out the recipe, here.
Dark Chocolate Cherry Protein Balls
The sweetness of our chocolate protein powder and cocoa compliments the sourness of cherries wonderfully in this simple protein ball recipe, creating a rich and indulgent tasting treat...
Check out the recipe, here.