Anti-Inflammatory Friday 1-10-2025

Did you know today is National Bittersweet Chocolate Day?🍫

If you know me, you know I can’t resist a good square (or two) of dark chocolate (70%+).

And let’s just say, there’s more to love about it than just the taste...

Take a look below, because we’re diving into why this treat deserves a spot in your anti-inflammatory toolkit. 👇

Anti-Inflammatory HEALTH TIP

The Sweet Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is delicious and packed with healthy benefits – it almost seems too good to be true.

But it's not! The key lies in choosing dark chocolate with 70% or higher cocoa content.

Let’s talk about three surprising ways it can support your health:

1. Reduces Your Inflammation: The antioxidants in dark chocolate neutralize free radicals in your body, lowering inflammation and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

2. Boosts Your Mood: Ever wonder why dark chocolate makes you feel so good? It contains compounds that stimulate the release of endorphins — the "feel-good" chemicals in your brain.

3. Supports Your Heart: The flavonoids in dark chocolate help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. In fact, consuming dark chocolate has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease.

Anti-Inflammatory RECIPE

Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse 🍫🥑

​Don't let the combination scare you. This creamy, rich mousse combines the indulgence of dark chocolate with the wholesome goodness of avocado and it's delicious!

Serves 4
​​
Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados

• 1/2 cup melted dark chocolate (70% or higher cocoa)

• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut)

• 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• A pinch of sea salt

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh berries (e.g., raspberries or strawberries)

• Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or pistachios)

• Shaved dark chocolate

Instructions:

1. Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20–30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.

2. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, melted chocolate, plant-based milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Taste the mousse and adjust sweetness with additional maple syrup if needed. Blend again to combine.

4. Divide the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to firm up.

5. Top with fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate for added texture and flavor.

Anti-Inflammatory MINDSET

"Discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most." — Abraham Lincoln

Have you ever considered how today’s choices ripple into tomorrow’s reality?

It’s easy to focus on the here and now, but our choices often come with hidden future costs.

Skipping sleep to check off a few more tasks might feel productive in the moment, but what does it cost you tomorrow? Fatigue, brain fog, and a weakened immune system — each of which can contribute to inflammation.

How to Apply Second-Order Thinking:

1. Pause Before Acting: Before making a decision, ask yourself, "What happens next?" Think about how your choice might affect your body, mood, or energy levels in the coming hours or days.

2. Choose Long-Term Gains Over Short-Term Comfort: It might be easier to grab processed snacks or skip a workout today, but prioritizing nourishing foods and movement pays dividends in how you feel tomorrow.

Remember, every decision creates a ripple effect.