Journal

Delicious healthy snacks are hard to come by, so when you find one that’s oozing with chocolate and brimming with antioxidants, you know it’s a keeper! Not overly sweet, these healthy chocolate matcha bars have a brownie consistency and would make for a good dessert or afternoon snack. 

Whilst we probably don’t need to mention the delicious thrill that dark chocolate offers our taste buds, did you know that dark chocolate can also fight toxins, boost brain function AND boost mood? 

Dark chocolate is rich in fiber, magnesium, iron, copper, and manganese as well as potassium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, and caffeine – ideal for an energy boost on lackluster days. Most importantly, it contains antioxidants (more than blueberries or acai berries, in fact!) This means it fights free radicals that can damage our cells causing premature aging and long-term health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Plus, there are more skin-enhancing benefits thanks to its bioactive compounds. Flavanols can protect against sun damage, improve blood flow to the skin and increase skin density and hydration. 

It doesn’t stop there either. Cocoa polyphenols found in dark chocolate can reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels and the fight-or-flight response, and reportedly increase blood flow to the brain to help you feel more switched on. Whilst we know dark chocolate delivers pleasure for the tastebuds, it’s also a natural aphrodisiac which means it could help things heat up in the bedroom too! L-arginine, an amino acid found in the sweet stuff, increases nitric acid in the body which may improve sensations to touch, satisfaction, and desire.  

Now for the green stuff...Antioxidant-rich matcha is fast becoming a superfood favorite thanks to its bright green color and nutritional benefits. Matcha is a type of green tea, loaded with chlorophyll and good-for-you amino acids that deliver lots of health benefits your body needs to function properly like detoxifying. 

It’s high in a compound called ECEG that fights free radicals from external aggressors that contribute to all sorts of long-term health conditions. External aggressors like UV rays, pollution, and blue light can contribute to the physical signs of premature aging like dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. In other words, matcha helps you to maintain a dewy complexion and acts as a shield against anything that challenges otherwise. 

Having been used by the Japanese for thousands of years, matcha is thought to improve concentration and focus, increase energy, and boost metabolism and immunity. Word has it that Japanese monks sipped matcha before meditation to help them retain a centered focus and sense of calm – a state of mind we could all benefit from in a busy world! 

Packing a punch, these gooey slices of heaven, are the ultimate afternoon pick-me-up. When something tastes so good, it’s hard to believe it can still give your body a nutritional boost, and yet these airy squares deliver just that. Dig in!