Chocolate & Coca

[Lindsay]

Chocolate and Cocoa:

Yup, that’s right. Chocolate is a fat-burning food. But keep in mind that this may not be the type of chocolate you are thinking of; 100 percent cocoa powder, unsweetened and loaded with phytonutrients, can aid you in fat-loss efforts. The major benefit of cocoa (the main ingredient in chocolate) is in its ability to directly affect the pleasure centers in the brain. The compound phenylethylamine (PEA) helps you feel satisfied, motivated, and energized. This effect cannot be overstated. The most well-intentioned and well-planned goals often fail due to neglect of the motivational aspects of the process. The compounds in cocoa are an amazing asset for all types and greatly enhance the metabolic effect. See the recipe for the cocoa drink below, used by cultures for centuries to aid health and control fat gain. Drink it with pleasure and without guilt. All chocolate bars are made with sugar and will raise insulin levels, so it is preferable that you not eat commercial chocolate bars. Muscle burners and mixed burners, however, can eat two small squares of dark chocolate (not milk or white). Remember, two small squares, not a candy bar or a scoop of chocolate ice cream. Sorry, sugar burners, but you need to avoid that extra sugar, and given your metabolic makeup, you’re rarely able to eat just two. Stick with the cocoa drink for best results.

Cocoa Recipe:

Sometimes you need a warm, soothing drink, especially when it’s cold outside. Add a dash of cinnamon, cayenne (hot peppers pair well with chocolate), or cardamom.

- 1 to 2 heaping tablespoons raw organic cocoa powder

- Unsweetened almond or rice milk, to taste. So delicious makes a great coconut milk creamer as well.

- 1 to 2 teaspoons erythritol, xylitol, or stevia (Truvia, PureVia)

Add 1 to 2 heaping tablespoons of the cocoa powder to a mug with 8 ounces of boiling water. Add the almond milk to taste, if desired. Add erythritol or other natural alternative sweetener to taste, for sweetening. You may also put this drink in the fridge to enjoy cold later.