Easter Chocolate

It's the busiest time of year for the chocolate industry. Why is it that chocolate shaped like an egg (or a bunny for that matter) tastes so much better? The conspiracy theorist within me likes to think that they deliberately put more sugar and preservatives in the chocolates to make them more addictive. So with all that chocolate, hot cross buns and easter feasting how can we stay healthy?

Well, it would be very dull to cut out chocolate altogether, especially at easter time, and we all know that chocolate definitely has its place in the food pyramid. Its a comfort, a pleasure, a simple joy that can make a bad day somewhat bearable. Cocoa is the magic ingredient here, mixed with the creamy texture and sweetness of the sugar it makes for a truly delectable comfort and soul food. Lets face it, sometimes we just need chocolate.

So, where does that leave health? Well, I always believe happiness is a sign of healthiness. Don't fall into the trap of eating so much chocolate till you feel sick and then feeling so guilty about it you decide to go for a marathon run up a mountain. This is the wrong approach. Chocolate eating is not guilty, don't treat it like you are committing a sin but rather approach chocolate consciously. Choose a good quality chocolate made from high grade cocoa, milk and sugar. Avoid chocolates with preservatives, additives and artificial colours and flavourings. Savour the taste, enjoy each bite guilt free, listen to your body- chocolate is rich and creamy so a little will go a long way if you are listening.

Eat proper meals during the day so you will be less tempted to eat all your choccy eggs. Also, keep your chocolate eating away from bed time when your metabolism is slowing down.

So tomorrow at your easter feasts take a moment to choose the best quality, and savour each mouthful. If you are eating it consciously you wont go crazy and stuff yourself.

Love to you all.