We are great believers in the expression 'a little of what you fancy does you good' so it warms our hearts to discover that these well loved drinks can be enjoyed without a second thought.
Our top three favourite 'good news' drinks shown below all have a reputation for being a little bit naughty but we're here to tell you why they can all be a great addition to a healthy diet.
Enjoy! Chocolate milkshake and hot chocolate It seems that the benefits of chocolate have really become apparent in the last couple of years.
There are several ways that this favourite treat is now believed to improve health in those eating an average of 7.
5 grams a day (with 70% plus cocoa content): Chocolate contains flavanols, which have been shown to boost the body's supply of nitric oxide and lower blood pressure, dramatically reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
It is also believed that, amongst other benefits, resveratrol (a super antioxidant) found in chocolate helps to counteract cancer causing free radicals.
We are delighted to report that low fat chocolate milkshake drinks are now giving carbohydrate based fitness drinks a run for their money after a recent study showed that energy is replaced quicker with chocolate milkshake than alternative typical sports drinks! To get the most from your milkshake or hot chocolate we recommend melting a square or two of good quality dark chocolate and adding hot or cold skimmed milk, yum! Red wine Red wine is also a good source of resveratrol and a glass a day is said to help defend your body against blood clots, blood vessel damage and even excess oestrogen.
Resveratrol is also rumoured to provide impressive anti-aging properties and has been dubbed "The Fountain of Youth" by some enthusiasts.
As with chocolate you must keep the amount of red wine you consume to a minimum otherwise it will do more harm than good - but it seems that the odd glass may be enjoyed in the knowledge that it is having a more positive effect than we tend to assume.
Tea The humble cup of tea may contain caffeine but it is also known to have excellent health benefits.
Tea is as hydrating as water and is packed with antioxidants with many fabulous properties, including protection against heart disease and some cancers.
It also contains flouride which helps to prevent tooth decay.
If you would like to get the most out of your daily cuppa then you may like to try green tea but, whichever type you drink, it seems that tea may be enjoyed guilt free! We would advise drinking up to three cups daily, preferably not too close to meal times or bed time.
Our top three favourite 'good news' drinks shown below all have a reputation for being a little bit naughty but we're here to tell you why they can all be a great addition to a healthy diet.
Enjoy! Chocolate milkshake and hot chocolate It seems that the benefits of chocolate have really become apparent in the last couple of years.
There are several ways that this favourite treat is now believed to improve health in those eating an average of 7.
5 grams a day (with 70% plus cocoa content): Chocolate contains flavanols, which have been shown to boost the body's supply of nitric oxide and lower blood pressure, dramatically reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
It is also believed that, amongst other benefits, resveratrol (a super antioxidant) found in chocolate helps to counteract cancer causing free radicals.
We are delighted to report that low fat chocolate milkshake drinks are now giving carbohydrate based fitness drinks a run for their money after a recent study showed that energy is replaced quicker with chocolate milkshake than alternative typical sports drinks! To get the most from your milkshake or hot chocolate we recommend melting a square or two of good quality dark chocolate and adding hot or cold skimmed milk, yum! Red wine Red wine is also a good source of resveratrol and a glass a day is said to help defend your body against blood clots, blood vessel damage and even excess oestrogen.
Resveratrol is also rumoured to provide impressive anti-aging properties and has been dubbed "The Fountain of Youth" by some enthusiasts.
As with chocolate you must keep the amount of red wine you consume to a minimum otherwise it will do more harm than good - but it seems that the odd glass may be enjoyed in the knowledge that it is having a more positive effect than we tend to assume.
Tea The humble cup of tea may contain caffeine but it is also known to have excellent health benefits.
Tea is as hydrating as water and is packed with antioxidants with many fabulous properties, including protection against heart disease and some cancers.
It also contains flouride which helps to prevent tooth decay.
If you would like to get the most out of your daily cuppa then you may like to try green tea but, whichever type you drink, it seems that tea may be enjoyed guilt free! We would advise drinking up to three cups daily, preferably not too close to meal times or bed time.