Chocolate lovers unite (or run for cover), because it’s Easter time and life right now is all about chocolate, chocolate, chocolate!
Made from cacao beans from the theobroma tree (theobroma literally meaning ‘food of the gods’), chocolate was once revered by the ancient Aztecs and served only to those needing wisdom i.e. noblemen, warriors and priests.
Today, however, chocolate is a daily treat for many of us, but is the dark stuff a dieter’s arch enemy or can Australia’s favourite sweet thing be good for you?
Health by chocolate?
Pure chocolate contains antioxidants called flavonoids, which can help to prevent a whole range of health conditions from heart disease to cancer. However, when it’s processed much of the health benefits are removed. That’s because in its natural state, chocolate is very bitter. To make it more palatable, manufacturers add sugar and milk. So if you eat chocolate for its health benefits (yes, we believe you!), you’ll need to choose a choc that’s dark and rich in cocoa (at least 70%). Or you could get your flavonoids from teas, vegetables, fruits and even a little red wine instead.
Good quality chocolate also contains nutrients like iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins. However, levels are quite low and you would get twice as much iron from the same amount of figs.
Death by chocolate?
The news isn’t all good though! The average size chocolate bar (around 54g) provides around 17g of fat, of which 10g is saturated.
Another major downer is the calories. Even a small 30g serve of chocolate has about 160 calories. If you can't help yourself and end up eating the whole 250g block, you're looking at a whopping 1345 calories.
Chocolate is so rich in calories that recently Scottish GP Dr David Walker called for it to be taxed. Dr Walker called chocolate eating a, “Harmful addiction, leading to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and back pain.” Walker believes that turning chocolate back to its age-old status as a luxury food would help people cut down and help tackle the country’s soaring obesity levels.
Chocolate the weight-loss way
Despite Dr Walker’s extreme reaction to chocolate, there are ways to enjoy a little of the 'good’ stuff without cutting it out completely.
- This Easter opt for small hollow or mini eggs to limit your temptation and maintain some control. Alternatively stick to a bar of chocolate. It may not have the same seasonal appeal, but if you’re the type that can stick to a few squares at a time then you won't go too far off track.
- Gradually wean your taste buds to a darker, good quality brand of chocolate that has a high cocoa content e.g. 70%. Only enjoy white or milk chocolate occassionally as they don’t have the same health benefits.
- Drink cocoa made with skim milk and an artificial sweetener to satisfy your chocolate craving.
- Indulge in chocolate-dipped fruit like strawberries, blueberries and nuts such as almonds or walnuts. This way you’ll get the taste with fewer calories and fat, while boosting the antioxidant value at the same time!
Lastly, be true to your diary this Easter. By keeping an accurate record of all that you consume you will know how much exercise you need to do to burn it off and not disrupt your weight-loss goals.
Happy Easter!