The Tasty Ingredient Proven to Lift Your Mood!

There is an ingredient so powerful, so healthy and so full of antioxidants that it has been scientifically proven to not only provide your body with: decreased blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels, but it is also proven to lift your mood! (Probably because it helps you to no longer worry about certain health issues).

What is this magical ingredient you ask? It's Cocoa (yup--the kind that chocolate is made of).

A women's Day article states, "According to researchers, cocoa contains theobromine & Phenethylamine-- plant compounds that raise your body's production of mood-elevating brain chemicals."

Cocoa is a powerhouse of feel-good (and taste-good) compounds which- if enjoyed on a regular basis- can have intense health benefits.

However, the best way to ensure that you are getting what you need is to consume the 'good' stuff. Meaning instead of purchasing that beloved Milk Chocolate bar go for the 'Dark' Chocolate one (which contains more of the feel-good chemicals & their health benefits).

However, if you're not a 'chocolate eater' (like myself)- you can receive these benefits in other ways. For example, it may sound silly but I'll devour a cup of Hot coco, but if someone were to offer me a Hersey's bar- I'd look at them sideways. For those special people (like me) you can opt to reap these benefits via a variety of tasty and healthy drinks (and just in time for summer)!

Try This out for starters:

Aja's CoCo-LoCo Snack Drink
- 2 cups Ice
- 2 cups Rice Milk (or whatever kind of milk you like)
- 1/2 cup Organic Vanilla Yogurt
- 2 scoops Cocoa Powder (Unsweetened)
- 2 scoops of Whey protein
- Dash of Cinnamon
- Pinch of Nutmeg
*A Tbsp or two of Brown sugar- if needed*

Combine ingredients in blender-Top with some homemade whip cream (optional)
& Enjoy! (Makes 4 servings)