How much is too much?
Did you know that it is ok to consume chocolate daily, especially dark chocolate, as long as it is in small portions? In fact, many nutritionists actually recommend it. For adults, this means no more than 30-50 grams per day.
The problem with this is once Easter hits, its tempting to splurge not only on chocolate but also on hot cross buns, booze as well as a number of other guilty pleasures. However, it is not all bad news with research showing that the odd indulgence every now and again won’t impact your long term health. It is only when the odd indulgence becomes a habit that this can lead to other health problems such as weight gain and diabetes.
So this leads us to the next question – how much chocolate do you have to eat before it kills you? Well, the good news is that chocolate isn’t as toxic to humans as it is to dogs. There certainly is a toxic amount of chocolate that can be fatal but you are far more likely to end up with a severely upset stomach and vomiting than with a chocolate overdose.
Speaking of too much chocolate – many of us are still traumatised by that scene in Matilda where Miss Trunchbull makes Bruce eat a whole chocolate cake in one sitting! To put you at ease after all these years, Bruce likely would not have suffered any chocolate toxicity from this. It is estimated that there would have been about a pound of pure chocolate in the cake he was made to eat – while enough to make him feel sick, this wouldn’t have killed him!
What is it about chocolate that makes us crave it?
The cocoa bean from which chocolate is made contains a substance called theobromine. Theobromine acts as a mild stimulant, with some scientists speculating it might share caffeine’s beneficial effects on mood. Different types of chocolates contain varying amounts of theobromine. On average, milk chocolate contains less than dark chocolate.
Also, let’s not forget that chocolate tastes delicious, so of course it is normal to crave the things we like and that bring us enjoyment.
So, what are some of the benefits of dark chocolate when eaten in moderation?
- Has a range of nutrients
- Powerful source of antioxidants
- May improve blood flow & pressure
- Decreases bad cholesterol in men
- Reduces risk of heart disease
- May improve brain function
Tips & Tricks for How to get Back on the wagon after easter
Here are three straight forward tips to help you get back on track:
1. Re-establish your exercise routine – the key word here being routine. Ease back into it and set realistic expectations. Perhaps start with a couple of sessions per week instead of aiming for 5 sessions straight away or start by going for daily walks with your dog or kids before attempting to run 5km without stopping.
2. After a few days, remove those extra Easter eggs and other sweet treats from your fridge. Schedule a day in your calendar to visit the local farmers markets for fresh produce to replace this.
3. Hydrate! Often our mind plays tricks on us when our body is dehydrated. Adding a lemon to your water might also help with your sweetness cravings.
Ok, so Easter has been and gone and you’re still struggling. This is when you might need to see a dietitian, health coach or even an exercise physiologist to help you get back on track, depending on what you are struggling with. At Urban Well, we offer all of these services. Our experienced team of health professionals are here to help you get back on track to better health.
References:
1. https://www.huffpost.com/archive/au/entry/fell-off-the-health-wagon-over-easter-heres-how-to-get-back-on_a_22037555
2. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-dark-chocolate
3. https://eatrunlift.me/eat-run-lift/2017/4/22/get-back-on-track-after-easter