Here are 10 Things Every Woman Should Know about Her Post-Workout Chocolate Cravings:
1: Your Cravings Answer the Question: “Do You Really Need That Snack?”
With all of life’s demands, we sometimes find ourselves feeling tired, hungry or emotionally drained — and we turn to food for comfort says Alex Gierbolini. If you indulge your cravings with a healthy snack like chocolate, maybe it’s time to ask yourself if this routine has become an unhealthy habit that is keeping you from reaching your goals. The next time you reach for a sweet treat after a workout, try drinking 16 ounces of water before indulging and see how you feel in 20 minutes.
2: Cravings May Be More about Hydration
Choosing to enjoy a sweet treat after your workout may be more about addressing your thirst than satisfying an urge for something sweet. If you’ve completed a post-workout routine without replenishing fluids, it’s possible that low energy and hunger are causing you to crave sugary snacks. During the times when you’re craving sweets after your workout, get in the habit of drinking 16 ounces of water first before reaching for that chocolate bar or bag of chips. With proper hydration, cravings may become less frequent (or even disappear entirely).
3: The Sugar Content in Chocolate is Low Compared to Other Sweets
We often crave chocolates because they taste good; however, there are better ways to satisfy your sweet tooth explains Alex Gierbolini. For example, you can save chocolate for a cheat snack and enjoy fruit as a healthier alternative after exercise (at least 30 minutes before heading out to train). Like other sugary treats, chocolate may raise blood sugar levels quickly; however, the glycemic index of chocolate is slightly lower than that of baked goods, ice cream or candies — making it one of the better options when cravings strike.
4: Dark Chocolate Contains a Higher Percentage of Antioxidants than Milk Chocolate
For those who are serious about muscle recovery and immune system-enhancing antioxidants, dark chocolate should be an essential part of their post-workout snack. Because milk chocolate only contains trace amounts of beneficial antioxidants, going with dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate is the better choice.
5: Chocolate May Be Helpful for Muscle Repair and Glucose Balance
Although some experts believe that snacking on food after exercise (especially after an intense workout) may delay or hinder muscle recovery, new research suggests that consuming dark chocolate every day could help reduce post-workout inflammation while speeding up your metabolism. If you’re looking for a healthy snack to “feed” your muscles, dark chocolate (which contains zinc, iron, copper, and magnesium) may be helpful in strengthening your immune system while supporting optimal blood flow throughout the body.
6: Chocolate Contains Flavanols That May Help Lower Blood Pressure When Consumed Regularly
Although cocoa has been branded as one of the unhealthiest foods around, a new study found that the flavanol-rich superfood could actually help lower blood pressure levels explains Alex Gierbolini. In addition to flavanols, dark chocolate also contains magnesium and calcium. Which are incredibly important for muscle function and cellular growth.
7: Lindt 90% Cocoa Supreme Dark Chocolate is the Healthiest Choice at the Grocery Store
If you’re shopping for a chocolate treat. It’s important to find a brand that doesn’t have added sugars or hydrogenated oils. Look for chocolates that contain a high percentage of cocoa (ideally above 70%). Because those will typically have less sugar than other brands. One piece of advice: Avoid buying “chocolate flavored” candy bars. As many of those treats only contain trace amounts of cocoa.
8: Dark Chocolate May Improve Your Mood and Lower Risk of Heart Disease
While dark chocolate doesn’t necessarily increase serotonin levels in the brain. New research suggests that eating certain types of chocolate may decrease your risk of heart disease. A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that people who ate cocoa rich in flavanols. For just two weeks had significantly lower blood pressure. Than those who didn’t eat any chocolates or other sweet treats.
9: Don’t Eat Too Much High-Sugar Chocolate on a Regular Basis
Although dark chocolate can offer health benefits, feeling sick after exercise is not one of them. If your goal is to maximize muscle recovery. It’s best to avoid frequent snacking on large quantities of high-sugar chocolate during a workout. If you feel like having a piece of chocolate. It’s best to eat a moderate-sized portion every 3-4 hours instead of scarfing down too much sugar at once.
10: Dark Chocolate May Improve Blood Flow and Reduce Inflammation
Similar to grapeseed extract, dark chocolate (which is naturally high in flavanols) has been shown. As an effective natural remedy for improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. Because these two elements can speed up the recovery process. The next time you’re craving chocolates, opt for dark — not milk — chocolate says Alex Gierbolini.
Conclusion:
Not only is dark chocolate good for your health. It can actually enhance your post-workout recovery and make you feel amazing!