Dial down the sugar without cutting out chocolate

Suffering a post-Easter chocolate-overload? Keeping your sugar intake in check isn't about deprivation. Here's how to find some balance.

We're not here to judge you on your chocolate consumption after an egg-and-bunny-filled Easter. You might actually be surprised to hear we love the stuff. And so does science.

In a recent study, researchers discovered that eating chocolate can help reduce your blood pressure by a massive two to three mmHg. This may not sound like much, but when you consider the raft of issues that come with high blood pressure - things like, heart disease, stroke and even dementia - every millimetre counts.

Our goal is just to help you stay mindful of the types of chocolate you eat. Because while it's undeniably delicious, most chocolate is full of sugar, fat and other ingredients that could have a negative impact on your health.

Here's our guide to indulging in the right kinds of cacao-fuelled sweets.

There's considerable evidence to suggest that dark chocolate is good for almost every aspect of your health. It can improve brain function, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and even help protect your skin from the sun.

It's nothing short of a miracle food, and it's easy to see why when you look at the sheer number of goodies that are in it. Just a single 100g bar of dark chocolate contains 11g of fibre, 67 per cent of your Iron RDA and 58 per cent of your Magnesium RDA.

It's also a great source of zinc and selenium - two things that are absolutely vital for a healthy immune system. And it's a delicious alternative to the milk chocolate that your kids are probably particularly fond of. Just remember, as with most foods except leafy greens, moderation is key.

If you're looking for an excuse to eat chocolate on the regular, we've found a healthy way to make dreams come true.

Over the last few years, raw cacao has unsurprisingly taken the health food world by storm. It contains 40 times more antioxidants than blueberries, is rich in minerals and is scientifically proven to boost your emotional wellbeing.

What's more, it's a great ingredient for literally thousands of recipes that aren't even sweet. Think, chocolate chilli, chocolate truffle tagliatelle and even cocoa-rubbed baby back ribs - all great choices for lunch, dinner and everything in between.

We know that carob isn't everyone's first choice. It's probably not even your second, third or fourth. But when prepared well, it can actually be a tasty alternative to chocolate, and just so you know, carob contains an entire alphabet of important vitamins.

These include:

• Vitamin A for healthy skin
• Vitamin B1 to help convert your food into energy
• Vitamin B2 for healthy hair and muscles
• Vitamin B3 for a healthy nervous system
• Vitamin D for stronger teeth and bones
• Vitamin E to help keep diseases like Alzheimer's at bay.

It's also caffeine-free and great for regulating your digestive system - perfect for a healthy treat.

Check out this delicious recipe for raw carob brownies, courtesy of The Australian Carob Co. They're delicious, easy to make, and totally free of sugar, gluten and dairy.

Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.

Disclaimer:
The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.