My "dark" secret

So, we generally eat healthy around our house, and I don't buy a lot of sweets, but lately I have been cutting all added sugars which can be quite a difficult task I have come to find. An article I read the other day said that when you set your new diet goals, you should hit it hard at 90% and give yourself a 10% cheat. I liked this idea, and didn't want to go too crazy, but I knew I needed some kind of sweet fix here or there as a reward. So whether you are looking for your own sweet fix, or just want a healthier treat, here is my "dark" secret, so simple, and so delicious!

Yep, dark chocolate and peanut butter!

Here some tidbits on dark chocolate that you may not know:

Lower Blood Pressure

Studies have shown that if you eat small amounts of dark chocolate 2-3 times a week, it can help lower your blood pressure. It improves your blood flow which may help prevent the formation of blood clots. It may also prevent arteriosclerosis (this is hardening of the arteries)

Loaded with Antioxidants

Antioxidants gobble up free radicals, destructive molecules which are known in heart disease and other ailments. Free radicals are implicated in the aging process and may be a cause of cancer, so therefor eating foods high in antioxidants can protect you from many types of cancer and slow down the signs of aging.

Helps control blood sugar

The flavanoids in dark chocolate are said to help reduce insulin resistance by helping your cells to function normally and regain the ability to use your body's insulin efficiently. Dark chocolate also has a low glycemic index, so it won't cause huge spikes in blood sugar levels.

High in Vitamins and Minerals

Dark chocolate also has a number of vitamins and minerals to support your health. In high concentrations includes: potassium, copper, magnesium, and iron. The potassium and copper help prevent against stroke and other cardiovascular ailments. The magnesium helps in preventing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, and the iron helps aid against iron deficiency anemia. 

And believe it or not, peanut butter has health benefits too! 

Energy

High in calories, but in moderation of course, it packs in the nutrition as well. It contains both protein and healthy monosaturated fats which will give you that great energy pick-me-up you are looking for. Peanut butter also has other nutrients like manganese, tryptophan, and vitamin B3.

Protein

Their are 7 grams of protein in each 2 TBSP serving of peanut butter. The amino acids found in protein are what your body uses to build and repair muscle tissue.  Additionally building metabolism boosting muscles, protein rich foods like peanut butter help you feel fuller longer.

Monosaturated fats

This type of fat can help reduce the bad cholesterol levels in your blood which can help in lowering your risk of heart disease and stroke. It also provides nutrients that aid in developing and maintaining your body's cells. Oils rich in monosaturated fats also add vitamin E to the diet, which is an antioxidant vitamin most Americans need more of.

Potassium

So excess sodium in our diets puts stress on our cardiovascular system, but potassium can counter act the negative effects of sodium. It also helps in heart function as well as  helps your nerves function properly. Consuming 2 tablespoons of peanut butter will boost your potassium intake by 238 milligrams.

Now obviously I am not a doctor, and this is my own research I have done. I absolutely love this treat, whether I indulge in a piece with peanut butter or not, in moderation its great all around! I know alot of people don't care for dark chocolate because of its bitterness, but you can start at a lower percent, like for example I started at 53% cacao (not cocoa). I am gradually working up to get my taste buds used to it. The higher percent the more cacoa, so the best for you is 70% cacao content or higher, rich in flavor and rich in flavanoids.