This is one of my favorite go-to snacks! It feels like a treat because of the chocolate chips but it's also a superfood. The key is portion size. It's hard sometimes to stop at the proper amount so I usually make my portion size baggies ahead of time. That way when I'm hungry and in a hurry I just grab and go and am not tempted to over indulge. I do this with several variations of homemade trail mix BUT this is the one that can get me in the most trouble:)
I use 1/4 cup (~1oz) of walnuts and 1 1/2-2 Tablespoons of 70% dark chocolate chips. Divine!!
Remember when using chocolate it's 70% and higher that contain all the health benefits we read so much about. If you're not a fan of dark chocolate but want to be, try training your tastebuds. Start with your preferred intensity and start adding a higher percentage each time you eat chocolate. I've had a couple clients try this approach and although it may take a while, it works! And is SO worth it!
Here are the stats below for this delicious healthy snack and treat:
- 255 calories (that may seem high but the fiber and the several "good" kind of fats walnuts contain are the reason and very much worth it)
- 5g/protein
- 4g/fiber
- Iron
- B6
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Potassium
- L-arginine (which has cardiovascular benefits)
- ALA (omega-3)
- Cancer fighting properties
- Antioxidant (in walnuts this type of antioxidant, polyphenols, helps lower cholesterol)
- Anti-inflammatory
Honestly, I could go on with the health benefits of eating walnuts and dark chocolate but I think this is a powerful persuasive start! So the next time you're grocery shopping pick up some walnuts and dark chocolate chips and create your go-to power snack. Set yourself up for success!!
XO Joy
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