Say “No to the Bow!”

 Avoiding the pitfalls of TheBig Red Heart box.As Valentine’s Day approaches and the shelves are filled with heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and cupcakes iced in pink and red, it’s hard to resist buying these goodies. If you are trying to improve your well-being or stay on track with your health and/or weight loss goals, here are a few ways to avoid temptation:

1) Don’t watch the commercials! They will tempt you and trigger your cravings!

2) Some people can eat just one, but if you’re like most of us, eating one often leads to eating another. Instead, don’t bring Valentine’s Day “treats” into your home, car or office. If it’s not there you can’t eat it.

3) Be upfront with your family, friends and sweetheart – if you don’t want candy or sweets for Valentine’s Day, tell them! If they really want to give you a gift, ask them to think of something non-food related. When someone supports your goals, that is a sign of true love!

While some research indicates that dark chocolate is “good for you,” due to its antioxidant properties, it is important to note that the research is referring to the actual raw cacao ingredient itself. Most commercial chocolates, especially those in the heart-shaped box, are made with significant amounts of unhealthy refined sugar and additional processed ingredients that turn the potential goodness into addictive junk food that wreaks havoc on your blood sugar and your health.

If you do choose to indulge, remember that not all chocolate is created equal! Be sure your dark chocolate is at least 70% cacao – such as Nibmoreor Gnosis http://www.gnosischocolate.com/. For a healthy alternative, try my Valentine’s Date Delight recipe below using 100% raw cacao and other healthy ingredients!

Love yourself by avoiding the harmful effects of sugar overload – symptoms may include inflammation, increased cholesterol, weight gain, brain fog, stomach distress, headache, suppressed immune system, mood swings and more.

Try these other sugar-busting tips:
1) Eat consistently each day – three meals and two snacks with a balance of protein, fiber and healthy fat.

2) Drink water. Sometimes sweet cravings are a sign of dehydration. Whenever you have a craving, sip a glass of water before you give in. You just might find you can say no to sweets!

3) Take my “good, better, best approach” to healthy eating by reading labels and choosing better ingredients. (To learn more about my coaching approach – click here: www.yourwebsite.com)

4) Eliminate “fat-free” or “low-fat” foods that are highly processed, low in nutrients and typically contain large amounts of sugar.

5) Spice it up. Try cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom to naturally sweeten your foods and reduce cravings.

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