Brought to you from Alicea Glover at:

Keeping in the spirit of Valentine's Day and the season of love, we usually think of two things, chocolate and romance, which can both make us happy and healthy.

Let's start with chocolate. There is mounting evidence that chocolate, more specifically dark chocolate, may be good for us when consumed regularly and in relatively small amounts. In the most recent issue of The Tufts University Health and Nutrition Letter, there was a feature article about dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher). Here is what they had to say:

According to Jeffery Blumberg Ph.D., director of Tuft's HNRCA Antioxidants Research Laboratory and noted expert on the health effects of the antioxidant polyphenol compounds found in chocolate, "the evidence that polyphenols in chocolate have some health benefits continues to grow. The highest concentrations of these polyphenols are found in dark chocolate. Studies, in particular, have focused on cardiovascular endpoints like blood pressure and vascular reactivity. Indeed enough data has been generated from these studies that positive results have been demonstrated in several published reviews and meta-analysis."

In other words it's good for your arteries.

Other studies mentioned in the article suggest that the phytochemicals available in dark chocolate may also improve cognitive functioning in people with mild cognitive impairment, may reduce the risk of stroke and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Because of its high fat content, dark chocolate-like milk chocolate-is high in calories and must be eaten in moderation. Dr. Blumberg points out that a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that just 6.3 grams (just over a quarter of an ounce) of dark chocolate daily had a beneficial effect. For comparison purposes, the size of the standard Hershey's Special Dark Chocolate bar is 41 grams or 1.45 ounces, or 6 � days worth of chocolate. When eating your dark chocolate, use mindful eating techniques; pay attention, eat slowly and savor every bite.  

So what about romance, more specifically sex... can 'it' really improve your health? If you are interested in finding out, check out this video from MSN Health.

Hilton Head Health (H3), is America's premier weight loss and health resort located on the shores of Hilton Head, South Carolina. For years, H3 has helped thousands of individuals learn to take control of their health through its proven Healthy Lifestyle™ program.  The tranquil environment and private facility is the perfect setting for a professional getaway. If a corporate retreat sounds right for your company, all (843)785-3919 or visit H3 online at www.hhhealth.com. 

'Like' Hilton Head Health on Facebook and 'Follow' us on Pinterest!

From Jen Welper and the H3 Healthy Kitchen:

 We all enjoy sweets from time to time but don't let one treat undo your whole day. Enjoy these decadent chocolate treats from the H3 Healthy Kitchen without feeling guilty or too full. Remember to portion out each serving before digging in and practice mindful eating to get the most of your dessert.

• Light Chocolate Chip Cookies 
• Grasshopper Pie 
• His & Her Chocolate Covered Strawberries

For more delightful desserts from the H3 Healthy Kitchen, attend our upcoming Chocolate Lovers hands-on cooking class. Spend an hour or two in our Healthy Kitchen having fun getting down and dirty creating gourmet, homemade food!  

Hilton Head Health's H3 Healthy Kitchen allows you to explore flavors from around the world in its Chef's Table fine dining experience. One week you'll go down under in the New Zealand Kiwi Experience and the next you'll travel through the valleys of France's smallest metropolis, Alsace. Observe as the chef prepares your multi-course meal and learn about the culture of each area as you enjoy wine pairings throughout the night's experience.