Surviving the Valentine’s Day sugar rush

Making health conscious choices is not something you normally think about on Valentine’s Day. I love getting a card from my sweetheart, but my sweet tooth cannot wait for a box of chocolates. It is my favorite day of the year for chocolates and truffles of all types. Post Valentine’s Day, many regret the sugar laden treats this season brings and ultimately the havoc it reeks on our bodies. We feel sluggish and often eat more candy than we would like to admit.

This Valentine’s day opt to be happy and healthy. Don’t say goodbye to sweets but do be selective in the candy store. Make healthier choices for your sweet tooth and your loved one.

Healthier treats: dark chocolate, fruits and nuts

Surviving the Valentine’s Day sugar rush includes getting to know chocolate a little bit better. Choose a dark or semi-sweet chocolate with a high cocoa percentage. Dark chocolates are filled with antioxidants and, in moderation, chocolate has many health benefits. The darker the chocolate, the better it is for you. Dark chocolate covered fruits and nuts are a great way to add extra nutrients. Dried berries are bursting with vitamins and antioxidants. Go ahead and ask for dark chocolate covered strawberries.

If you want to go chocolate-free this year, send a hint for delicious fruit which is a tasty alternative to satisfy your sweet tooth. Say hello to a fruit basket and goodbye to temptation! Nuts are a good choice and have a high nutrition value. Avoid chocolate by getting roasted or seasoned nuts. These will satisfy sweet cravings while providing a nutritional snack high in protein.

Despite your best efforts to make healthier choices this Valentine’s Day, you might receive a decadent box of truffles anyway. Make it a goal to eat them in moderation, toss chocolates in the fridge or freezer and they will stay fresh for a few weeks. Or even better – share them with friends, family and coworkers. That is really in the spirit of Valentine’s Day!

If your New Year’s resolution was to improve eating habits, don’t let Valentine’s Day derail you. It’s okay to give yourself permission to enjoy a few treats but keep these two bits of advice in mind: A little goes a long way and avoid having too much of a good thing.

Happy Valentine’s Day!