FIVE HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES TO CHOCOLATE
By Luke Chillingsworth
Research shows that munching a chocolate bar every day could increase your risk of heart failure by 17%. We asked health experts to find some alternatives, but they stressed chocolate isn’t that bad after all.
smoothie
What's your favourite flavour?
Daniel O’Shaughnessy,
The Naked Nutritionist:
“You’ve got to get your diet at least 80% unprocessed, so you’re better off having a healthy smoothie.
“You can make a smoothie from chocolate protein powder. There’s no harm in having a protein shake as part of snack rather than just for the gym.”
popcorn
Anyone going to the cinema?
Dr Frankie Phillips:
“The unsalted or unsweetened popcorn is a great and handy snack if you’re not someone who is very fond of fruits and vegetables.”
nuts
These won't make you go nutty for chocolate anymore.
Dr Frankie Phillips,
British Dietetic Association:
“A small handful of almonds, hazelnuts or walnuts are very easy to store.
“You’re getting the nutritional benefits of the nuts, not just the fibre but also vitamin E and the unsaturated fats.
“They are high in calories because they have a high fat content, but a small portion would give you a real boost of nutrients.”
bread sticks
A good option with soup.
Sophie Bertrand, nutritionist:
“It may be a good idea to have more nutritious go-to snacks.
“Ideally these snacks would be a good source of fibre and protein such as hummus and veggie sticks.”
dark chocolate
Chocolate as an alternative to chocolate?
Sophie Bertrand:
“Those who call themselves chocolate addicts may wish to consider snacking on a few squares of dark chocolate instead of white or milk.
“Research indicates dark chocolate is a good sources of antioxidants and chocolate in moderation could lower cholesterol levels and help prevent memory decline.”