Have you gotten bitten by the chocolate bug?
I hear from my clients constantly about their chocolate and sugar cravings, especially around their period and trust me… I totally get it!
Hormonal changes, cramps, cravings, sore boobs, fatigue – oh what a joy it is to get your period!
Truth is, it doesn’t need to be this way and it SHOULDN’T be this way. If you’re having intense PMS symptoms, something is up girl!
Don’t just pop an advil and think it’s going to solve your problems. You have to PAY ATTENTION to your symptoms.
How long have you been experiencing discomfort around your cycle?
Has your flow changed – heavier, lighter, shorter, longer?
Are your cravings more intense or the same as before?
Are you stressed?
What are your sleep habits like?
Are you exercising and moving your body regularly?
What does your diet look like?
These are typical questions I ask my clients and questions you should be asking yourself.
This is where I do my investigative work. Assessing what micro and macro nutrients someone might be missing, what might be going on hormonally (ie. estrogen dominance, low progesterone, high cortisol), and really diving into lifestyle and environment changes.
It ALL can affect your hormones and it can ALL be fixed and managed with the right foods, the right supplements, and the right protocols.
So where does chocolate fit into all of this?
Well… those damn cravings! They are bound to happen and being that you are human, you’re bound to want something sweet.
And here’s the thing – if you DON’T give into your cravings every now and again, you will go crazy! This can lead to an all out binge-fest, and that we don’t want!
I like to provide healthier ‘treat’ options for my clients. Treats that still contain good fats and nutrients, are sweet enough and chocolatey enough to support the cravings, and won’t completely derail you off your diet.
Enter the Chocolate Chia Pudding. It’s great for a breakfast, a dessert or just because you need some chocolate and you’re PMS-ing!
OH! and typically… the reason you’re craving chocolate around your cycle is because you’re low in magnesium – an important detoxification mineral. If you’re currently not taking this magical mineral, start now!
This supplement ALONE can help combat those cravings. The good thing about this pudding is that it contains loads of magnesium from cacao. It’s also full of healthy omega 3’s fats, which are important for hormonal health and combating inflammation and it’s naturally sweetened with dates.
Because this recipe is chock full of healthy fats and fiber, it won’t cause your blood sugar to soar, which is KEY to managing PMS symptoms.
Ok, now, onto the Chocolate goodness.
Chocolate Chia Pudding
2016-08-09 11:36:40
Serves 2
Prep Time
5 min
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 4 pitted Medjool dates
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Add all ingredients into a high speed blender. Blend on the high until smooth. Enjoy immediately or chill in the fridge for a few hours to thicken up.
- Alternatively, you can use 3/4 cup of almond milk and about 4-5 almond milk ice cubes. I like to keep almond milk ice cubes on hand to include in a smoothie or to make a quick iced coffee. Using the ice cubes will add more thickness and texture to the pudding.
- Top with blueberries or your favourite fruit. Even hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds would make a great addition.
Holistic Wellness https://holisticwellness.ca/
Please Share Your Thoughts
