Blend Your Smoothie with Cocoa Powder instead of Peanut Butter to Keep Your Arteries Clean

Cocoa tastes great with everything from bananas to berries, plus one tablespoon of chocolaty goodness will add only 12 calories to the blender (the equivalent amount of peanut butter adds 100 calories). Plus, cocoa is loaded with compounds called flavonoids, which prevent fat from clogging the arteries, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. To swallow the maximum antioxidant benefits, look for a cocoa percentage of at least 60: A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that flavonoids found in the dark stuff can decrease blood pressure and improve insulin resistance in healthy adults.

Serve it up: Add one tablespoon of cocoa powder to your smoothie or morning coffee. Or swirl the powder in your oatmeal for a chocolaty, antioxidant-rich bowl.

By: Nicole Yorio Jurick

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