Yesterday I promised to send along what the National Geographic's new publication says about alcohol, chocolate and coffee. Here it is!
Alcohol. "Any alcoholic beverage (beer, wine, liquor) is beneficial to heart health, as it raises "good" cholesterol and reduces inflammation. That's good news! The bad: High alcohol intake is a strong risk factor for breast cancer and can be a major source of excess calories in the diet."
Chocolate. Chocolate is beneficial to heart health, including improvements in blood pressure, lipoprotein levels, and insulin resistance. It's also a good source of manganese, copper and iron. But remember, chocolate, especially milk chocolate, contributes calories and sugar to the diet, so enjoy it only in small quantities.
Coffee. Coffee is the top source of phenolic antioxidants in Americans' diets. Drinking 2 to 4 cups daily may increase longevity and reduce risks of type 2 diabetes, liver cancer, and gall bladder disease. The only downside they mention is to be sure to skip those coffee drinks that are full of sugar!
The above photos are fun, as this chocolate is made right in my home town (don't worry about the copyright, I own the FresnoHasTaste website and took the photos above). Previously I never really liked any chocolate but milk chocolate, until I tasted the Molucca, made here in Fresno. They make several levels of chocolate of semi-sweet nature, and I really have enjoy their Indonesia chocolate. Just a note - I rarely eat the chocolate, now that I'm on the "Peacock Program". In the three weeks I've been on the program I've had only a total of 2 of the squares the size you see in the cup. That in itself gave me a little pick-up when I needed it! If you have a local chocolate producer, give their product a try!
And, so for today's intake: This morning I had a bowl of the Raisin Bran Crisp which I really love! (250 Calories) Lunch was late today, as my friend got off work late and we didn't finish lunch until almost 3:00. My lunch was the GOOD burger in a bowl from the restaurant I ate at two weeks ago.
It was great and the calories were acceptable! (540 Calories)
I'm still full from lunch, so again this evening I'll snack on some whole wheat crackers and smoked salmon. (155 calories)
Total calories for today: 945. Not bad!
Looks like tomorrow is going to be a "Stay-at-Home" day. I'll behave food-wise. I've been wanting to try a new recipe that is a cauliflower casserole dish. More on that tomorrow.
Have a GREAT day!
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