A Sweeter Start
Dancers know the importance of a healthy breakfast to jumpstart their day, so chocolate probably doesn’t come to mind as a go-to ingredient. But recent research suggests that you may want to consider sprinkling cocoa powder on your morning oatmeal or yogurt. Food scientists from the University of Louisiana discovered that when cocoa powder reacts with good bacteria in our guts, amazing things happen: For starters, bacteria transforms polyphenols, the antioxidants in cocoa powder, into molecules that reduce inflammation. It also breaks down cocoa powder’s fiber, making you feel fuller, and it converts cocoa powder into compounds that help keep the heart healthy.
This doesn’t mean you should ditch a traditional breakfast for a sugar-packed Hershey bar. But a sprinkle of cocoa powder could satisfy your chocolate craving without causing a spike in your blood sugar levels. Tomorrow morning, indulge a little. It’s good for you!
Looking for more creative breakfast ideas? Bill T. Jones dancer Shayla-Vie Jenkins recently shared her own take on oatmeal with DM. Check out her supercharged toppings here.
