Mmmm...CHOCOLATE

Chocolate is the only ingredient that is its very own food group.

Well not really - but seems as if it should be. Powerfully comforting, creamy, delicious - many people eat chocolate at least several times a week. Which begs the question....

Is chocolate good for you?

The answer is both yes and no.

Chocolate has been used for centuries to treat bronchitis, sexual malaise, fatigue, hangovers, anemia, depression, memory loss, high blood pressure, poor eyesight, and more. It also helps release that feel-good neurotransmitter - serotonin - in the brain.

BUT eat the wrong kind and you'll get loads of sugar, calories, junky ingredients, and tired.

HOW TO EAT RESPONSIBLY...

Chocolate begins life as raw cacao (pronounced nah-kow) beans. Loaded with antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and plant phenols, cacao is a powerful superfood. The more processed cacao becomes, however - think commercially produced candy bars - the fewer healthy components remain.

So how to get the most out of your chocolate fix?

• Don't be afreaid of the dark. The darker the chocolate, the more beneficial cacao it contains.

• Know your percentages: the number on the dark chocolate packaging refers to the percentage of cacao bean in chocolate. For maximum health benefit, look for dark chocolate that has 75% to 85% cacao.

• Go Raw - or as unprocessed as possible

Looking for more fun ways to enjoy your favorite food? You'll love this dark chocolate treat. Invite some friends over and make a batch! Comment below and tell me how you liked it.

Chef Karolina's Raw Chocolate Truffles

Prep Time: 20 Min

Makes 25 truffles

1 cup raw cacao powder

1 cup cashews or macadamia nuts

1/2 cup maple syrup

water (to mix)\

Roll-in ingredients: shredded coconut, chopped nuts, chocolate nubs, raw sugar, cocoa powder, ginger, or something else you love.

Mix cashews in food processor until a powder, adding enough water to create a thick paste.

1. Add maple syrup to cashews and pulse to process.

2. Add cacao powder. Pulse to process.

3. Refrigerate for four hours or overnight for best results.

4. Form teaspoon-sized balls of dough. Coat balls in your chosen roll-in ingredients!

GET EVEN HEALTHIER!

Are you curious about how to choose chocolate - and other delicious superfoods-to keep you healthy (and your taste buds happy)? Let's talk. Schedule a complimentary health coaching consultation with me today - or pass this offer on to someone you care about!