Food of the Week [Part I]: Choose Chocolate at Her Active Life

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Food of the Week [Part I]: Choose Chocolate

Posted June 2, 2008 at 10:00 AM by Katie Drummond

Section: Her Nutrition, Healthy Eating, Recipes, Special Features, Food of the Week

brownie Think of chocolate, and you may conjure up images of “forbidden” Butterfinger bars and brownies, and shudder at the thought of “all that fat” winding up on your thighs. But it may be time to reconsider your idea of chocolate as a sinful no-no, with new research proving that this savory treat actually does – in moderation – have powerful health benefits.

You’ve probably heard of antioxidants – those little compounds that help prevent heart disease, fight some cancers and even ward off dementia. While there are thousands of different antioxidants, found in foods from fruits and veggies to whole grains, chocolate is actually one of the most potent sources! German researchers looked at the impact of antioxidants in dark chocolate on blood pressure, and found that only 0.2 ounces reduced systolic blood pressure three points, and diastolic blood pressure by two points.

Other studies in the U.S. and Europe back up this research, and have found that small servings of dark chocolate have benefits for the cardiovascular system and our cholesterol levels. But remember the key words: “small serving.” Chocolate is a high-fat food, and 2/3 of those fats are saturated. For a fat-free and lower-calorie way to get your fix, try cocoa powder instead.

But when the urge strikes – go for it, and enjoy. Try this lower-fat, five-minute chocolate brownie recipe.

Recipe Profile

Perfect For: Getting a tasty dessert on the table in a pinch

Prep Time: 15 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients:

½ cup flour
¼ cup nuts (powdered)
¼ cup nuts (chopped)
½ cup sugar
3 ounces dark chocolate
½ cup apple puree
1 banana (pureed)
1 tbsp coffee
1 tsp vanilla
Dash of salt
¼ tsp baking powder

Chop the dark chocolate into pieces and microwave for 1 minute, stirring after 30 seconds. Whisk it with the apple and banana purees, then set side.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, nuts, salt and sugar. Add the chocolate mixture and flavorings, then whisk before adding baking powder and whisking one final time.

Transfer to a lined baking dish and microwave for five minutes. Allow to cool before serving.