Craving Chocolate? Alternatives For The Chocolate Addict

Craving Chocolate?  Who isn't!  First of all this time of year, Easter conjures up nothing but chocolate.  chocolate eggs, chocolate bunnies, chocolate, chocolate, chocolate!  Aargh!  O.k. get a grip.  Even though we crave it there are ways to control ourselves and enjoy the healthier side of this indulgence.  Yes, chocolate can be healthy. 

Dark chocolate - not white chocolate - lowers high blood pressure but mild high blood pressure.  Dark chocolate is a potent antioxidant according to Mauro Serafini, PhD, of Italy's National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research in Rome, and colleagues. However, don't wash it down with milk since this will negate the potential health benefits.  

Of course, lucky us, women crave chocolate the most.  Chocolate releases serotonin making us feel happier.  I can vouch for that! I crave it once a month, when I'm sad, depressed, bored.  It's definitely an emotional addiction. 

How do you curb this craving?  First I have to decide what my emotions are and if the reason for eating the chocolate is solely based on this fact.  To change my way of thinking I take out my list of things to do instead of eating this guilty pleasure.  The best thing to do if you need a chocolate fix is to find alternatives or eat it in moderation.  I rarely keep large quantities of the stuff in my house.  If it's there I'll eat it.  I go out and purchase a small candy bar on occasion or a great alternative is that most restaurants now serve up desserts in shot glasses.  This satisfies my desire and I get to enjoy an evening out with my husband.

If it's boredom, take a walk, call a friend, read a book.  Make sure you have healthy food nearby.  If you do cave in and indulge remember to increase your exercise routine for the week.

Make sure that the reason you're craving isn't because you haven't eaten enough throughout the day.  Make sure you're taking in the right calories and not starving yourself.

My goal is to always incorporate some chocolate foods into my plan so I don't feel deprived.  My favorite dessert of all time is one I bake, slice, and freeze so I have something ready at a moments notice.  It's a Fudge Brownie Recipe from Eating Well. 

Here are some other healthy ideas to get you started:

1. No Pudge Fudge Brownie Mix

2. Sugar Free Pudding both the Cook n' Serve and pre-made

3. VitaMuffins Deep Chocolate Muffin (100 Calories)

4. Sugar Free Dove Chocolate Creme Silky Smooth Dark Chocolates (3 for 114 calories)

5. Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries (1.1oz is 30 calories)

6. Dark Chocolate Raisinets ( One 1.6 oz. package is 180 calories)

7. Chocolate Flavored Coffees

8. Dark Chocolate Hershey Kisses (4 pieces are 102 calories)

9. 86% Dark Chocolate - The most decadent of chocolates in my opinion, less sugar, high cocoa content, and although it's an acquired taste, one piece will keep you satisfied once you continue eating this kind of chocolate.

10. Here are more wonderful, Healthy Chocolate Recipes To Try.

For me, moderation is key. Finding healthy alternatives that keep me satisfied is the reason chocolate remains a permanent part of my life.  Let me know if you try any of these recipes or if you have any ideas to share.  Chocolate Lovers Unite!  Life is sweeter with chocolate, the right chocolate that is.