How to make chocolate a not so guilty pleasure

Chocolate does have some benefits if eaten in moderation

Dark Chocolate has been shown to help to prevent heart disease and cancer

Dark Chocolate improves mood by boosting the brains serotonin levels

Chocolate is made up of about 300 chemicals, some which may have mood altering effects. (Phenyethylamine is said to simulate the feeling of falling in love).

Chocolate contains a wide assortment of vitamins and minerals. (A B1 C D E)

Chocolate contains flavonoids which may lower the risk of cardio vascular disease and cancer while slowing the aging process.

Chocolate gets a bad rap about being bad for us but if you are an addict, moderation is best and at least has some positive benefits for you.

If you must eat Chocolate, here are some tips for controlling your cravings and indulgences:

1. Dark is best. Research has shown that the benefits of Chocolate comes from the dark type more than the milk type

2. Eat your chocolate with a nutrient rich food. Strawberries dipped in chocolate

3. Buy smaller sizes, this will stop you over indulging

4. Order fruit for dessert with a small chocolate treat on the side so it is not your main treat

5. Savour, sit down and take your time and enjoy. This may stop you reaching for more because you remember eating it compared to popping one in your mouth while on the phone

6. Give in to your cravings. If you eat something instead and then still have your cravings and reach for chocolate later, then you are eating more calories than if you had just given in to your craving and ate a small amount of chocolate.