The Chocolate Craving: Take Two

It's no secret. I love chocolate. And this time of year, there are even more tempting goodies around than usual.

To be honest, I see nothing wrong with a little indulgence every now and then (as in dessert after both lunch and dinner...every day). But sometimes, a little self-control might be in order.

I've done a post on health-conscious ways to satisfy your chocolate craving before (you can check it out at http://breackneckbeautywellnessforwomen.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-chocolate-craving.html), but since then, I have come across even more ways to satisfy that undeniable craving for cocoa. In most instances, I'd be lying if I told you the below foods were healthy options, but they are healthier alternatives to eating, say, a piece of chocolate cake or a candy bar.

Craving: Chocolate Cookies
Solution: Kashi Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies

I would have included pictures here, but I already ate all these delectable little whole-grain cookies. One cookie boasts 10 grams of whole grain per serving, 4 grams of fiber, 3 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat. You can view a full list of ingredients, view photographs, and get all the nutrition facts here.

Even though the cookies are not very big, one goes a long way. The chocolate flavor is rich and decadent, and because they are whole grain, they are fairly filling. I never ate more than two in one sitting, and I was usually satisfied after one and a half.

Craving: Brownies
Solution: Kashi Soft-Baked Chocolate Squares

Made with whole grains, sweet potato, and black beans, these squares of chocolate goodness are an excellent substitute for your everyday brownie. They do not appear to be very large, but they pack a powerful punch. Sometimes, I felt full and satisfied before finishing just one.

An added bonus is the fact that they are individually wrapped, making them an easy dessert option for a brown-bag lunch.

To view the full nutrition facts and ingredients list, click here.

Craving: Pudding, Mousse, or Ice Cream
Solution: Yoplait Chocolate Mousse or Chocolate Raspberry Whipped Yogurt

There are at least two delicious ways to indulge in this dessert--another easy one for a brown-bag lunch. Option One: You can simply eat it as is right out of the fridge. Option Two: You can freeze it and eat it as frozen yogurt. If you're so inclined, you could even turn it into a sundae by adding a bit of whipped cream and a cherry or some nuts.

One of these chocolatey yogurts provides 10% of your recommended daily calcium intake and 5 grams of protein. It also, however, contains 22 grams of sugar. As desserts go, though, that's probably not too bad. For full nutritional information, click here.


Did you know...?
If you just cannot deny yourself that slice of chocolate cake or that homemade brownie, you can reduce the fat content by using applesauce or plain yogurt in place of butter.