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Fiber-Loaded Hot Chocolate: A Potential Weight Loss Aid?
Here’s good news for hot chocolate lovers. Contrary to popular belief, the tempting beverage could actually be beneficial for weight loss, states a health expert. Steve Bennett, a health coach, informs The Sun that having a cup of hot chocolate every day could aid in weight loss as it is rich in fiber, a highly satiating nutrient.
High Fiber Intake for Weight Management
Bennett advocates that an increased fiber intake in your diet can potentially help you to consume less food as it leaves you feeling fuller for a longer period. He further adds, “The key ingredient in hot chocolate, cocoa powder, is naturally high in fiber.”
This theory is certainly appealing, but it comes with a caveat – the hot chocolate should be unsweetened.
The Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipe
To bypass the calorie-laden hot cocoa mixes available on store shelves, Bennett shares a simple recipe to prepare a healthier version of the beverage at home. He uses about 200 milliliters (3/4 cup) of warm milk, two tablespoons of cocoa powder, and two teaspoons of stevia, a zero-calorie sweetener.
Bennett believes this strategy of incorporating fiber into diet doesn’t require depriving one’s self of favorite foods which makes adherence to this method easier. “Starting your meal with fiber allows you to eat whatever you like afterwards, however, you end up eating less overall due to the satiating effect of fiber”, he explains.
Fiber’s Multiple Health Benefits
The benefits of fiber extend beyond weight management. It plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, and ensuring adequate water absorption for smooth bowel movements. As per Healthline, fiber also has the potential to reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes in individuals who consume a high-carb diet. Some research even suggests a link between high fiber intake and a lower risk of colorectal cancer, although more studies are needed to confirm this.
Other High-Fiber Alternatives
If hot chocolate isn’t your preference, there are several other sources of dietary fiber you can choose from, ranging from berries, beans, nuts, and seeds to oats and avocados.
However, it’s important to monitor your fiber intake as excessive consumption could lead to gastrointestinal issues. Christina Palmisano, MS, MBA, RDN, cautions that a high fiber diet, especially without adequate hydration, can potentially cause gas and constipation. She explains, “Fiber is challenging to digest. Too much could overwhelm your GI system.”
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