Everyone knows that nuts and chocolate is a match made in heaven, but did you know that these so-called fatty foods can actually help you become leaner? Yes, it’s true, and I’ll tell you why.
When you’re craving some chocolatey decadence, opt for a darker variety. Some may say it’s an acquired taste, but I wouldn’t know because, luckily, my mother introduced me to dark chocolate at a young age (I think I just wanted to be like her). Dark chocolate is known to be loaded with antioxidants, but it can also offer quite a bit of fiber, and is a good source of healthy fats. Naturally, when there is a higher percentage of cacao in the chocolate, there’s less room for added sugar. Picking the right dark chocolate is key because you must find the perfect balance of sweetness that works for you (too dark can be bitter).
I’m definitely an advocate for a daily dose of chocolate. So, when you’re ransacking your kitchen, in search for something sweet, don’t forget about that bar of dark chocolate you stashed somewhere last week. Don’t be fooled; dark chocolate is rich in flavor and calories. However, choosing a square of organic dark chocolate to curb your sweet tooth instead of indulging in a piece of chocolate cake is a much, much better decision. By making healthier dessert decisions like that, you’ll be skipping a ton of calories without feeling deprived, enjoying the numerous health benefits, and looking leaner in no time.
I think it’s relatively safe to say that nothing pairs better with chocolate than nuts. Who doesn’t like a bit of crunch with the rich, creaminess of chocolate? Eh, maybe kids don’t. I must’ve been one nutty kid because I didn’t like nuts (no?). Once I finally gave them a chance, there was no turning back. For me, chocolate with almonds is incomparably superior.
For a delicious, nutritious chocolate bar, grab one with nuts in it. Since it’s fall, apple slices with nut butter and dark chocolate dip sounds like a dreamy idea too. Essentially all the fat in nuts comes from healthy fats. Also, they’re fibrous and protein-packed. If peanut butter and chocolate is your go-to dessert combo like a lot of people, put a twist on it by trying out vitamin E-rich almond butter instead. One time a few years ago, I was feeling adventurous and bought some sunflower seed butter. That month, I ate about five jars of it (hey, I hear it’s a good source of magnesium). So, you could probably get away with saying it was decent.
Aside from being full of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, nuts can help you become leaner by helping you control your appetite. Eating a handful of raw (raw offers the purest nutritional content) nuts a little while before you eat a meal will fill you up some, and prevent you from overeating at the table. After going vegan and gluten-free, I developed a strong relationship with cashews. Now, I always have organic, raw cashews (buy bulk) on hand for healthy snacking.
If you’re unsure about whether or not you’ll be able to fit into those skinny jeans from last winter, start incorporating some satisfyingly sweet dark chocolate and nuts into your diet. Choosing these healthy fats over empty calorie-dense options can surprisingly get you on the right track.
