If you’re looking for a good excuse to indulge in some chocolate on Valentine’s Day, you have come to the right place.
To begin, studies have shown that, in small amounts, dark chocolate can act as a natural mood booster and control stress levels. Research has also found that eating chocolate can temporarily boost brain function and make us more alert- which basically means that any poor grades I received in high school can be attributed to a chocolate deficiency.
Got that, Mom and Dad?
Furthermore, dark chocolate is a good source of flavonoids, plant-based compounds that are rich in antioxidants. Flavonoids have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, treat liver disorders, and may possibly prevent certain types of cancer, such as liver cancer.
And it gets even better- dark chocolate has some incredible beauty benefits as well. It helps to moisturize the skin from the inside out and protects it from harmful UV rays, and eating chocolate can result in healthier hair and fewer wrinkles.
This Valentine’s Day, I suggest that you open up a bottle of wine (another fantastic source of flavonoids) and enjoy one of the chocolate treats below.
You have plenty of excuses to go for it!
Best-Ever Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Bars
Thick and Creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Breakfast Shake
Skinny Double Chocolate Chip Muffins
Homemade Hot Chocolate (dairy & sugar free)
The Best Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate Glazed Chocolate Banana Donuts
Dark Chocolate Greek Yogurt Fruit Dip with Cinnamon
Chocolate Covered Banana Split Bites
Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookie Pancakes
Skinny Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
Healthy Chocolate Chia Pudding