As a Registered Dietitian, Diane Johnson is passionate about providing nutrition support and services to individuals looking to enhance their personal health and well-being. Diane offers nutrition services to teach you how to eat to achieve a healthy weight and lifelong relationship with food. Additionally, Diane is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, helping individuals overcome over-, under-, emotional, and restrictive eating. Diane offers 1-on-1 nutrition assessments to better understand your nutrition related goals and follow up consultations to track progress, adjust plans, and provide ongoing support. In addition to providing personalized meal plans, Diane offers quick and healthy recipes, grocery store lists, and accountability through MyFitnessPal to help make nutritious eating relaxing and fun! Connect with Diane by emailing DianeaRobison@gmail.com and follow her on instagram @FuelYourFeet.
Benefits of Dark Chocolate
What makes dark chocolate so special? Interestingly enough, it contains a compound called PEA or phenylethylamine, a chemical in the brain responsible for boosting mood and feelings of passion. Dark chocolate is also made with a higher percentage of cocoa, which means it has less sugar and contains anti-inflammatory polyphenols and flavonoids. These compounds can improve heart health and brain function, including memory and focus. Look for dark chocolate made with 70% + cocoa.
Hot Cocoa Recipe
Peppermint Hot Cocoa with Marshmallow Cold Foam
Ingredients
Peppermint Hot Cocoa:
1.5 cups favorite type of milk
2 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
2-3 oz. chopped dark chocolate bar, at least 70% cocoa
2 tsp. maple syrup
2 drops peppermint extract
½ tsp. cinnamon
Dash of sea salt
Marshmallow Cold Foam:
2 tbsp. heavy cream
2 tbsp favorite type of milk
1 tbsp. marshmallow crème
Directions
1. Heat milk in a saucepan on medium to low.
2. Once milk begins to warm up, add cocoa powder. Stir to combine.
3. Add dark chocolate, maple syrup, peppermint extract, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir until chocolate melts. Cover and keep on low heat.
4. Combine 2 tbsp. heavy cream, 2 tbsp. milk of choice, and 1 tbsp. marshmallow crème in a blender. Blend for 30 seconds or until foamy.
5. Pour hot cocoa into a mug, top with marshmallow cold foam, and enjoy!