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How to manage your calorie (and chocolate) intake over Easter.

26/03/2013

Easter Fever

In case you’ve missed the decadent chocolate displays in supermarkets, you’ll be well aware that Easter is almost upon us. If this usually means a miserable display of failed willpower for you, make this your year of change. Chocolate treats can still be enjoyed in moderation, and lower calorie substitutes are always an option. Here are a few ways for you to come out the other side of Easter the same size you went in.

lindt-gold-bunny

Knowing what you’re eating is the first step to managing your calorie intake.

Easter Egg Kilojoules (KJ) Calories (cal)
Beacon Milk Chocolate Marshmallow Eggs 300 71.5
Beacon Bantam (White) Eggs 400 95
Cadbury Milk Chocolate Mini Eggs 215 51
Lindt Gold Bunny 2400 571
Cadbury Caramel Mini Eggs 215 51
Mr Sweet Speckled Eggs 33 8
Lindt Lindor Egg 860 204
Woolworths Mini Hollow Bunnies 600 142
Woolworths White Chocolate Chicks 120 28.5

 

*To get an idea of how these treats can fit in to your day, the average fruit item is roughly 70 calories. You may lose out on a few nutrients on Easter weekend, but keeping your calories in check is a good compromise.  

 

Other Chocolate Ideas

If chocolate is on your mind but you’re skipping on the Easter eggs, here are some substitutes for you to choose from:

  • Chocolate Super M is a popular option for curbing cravings at 183 calories per serving.
  • Making your own hot chocolate is a great alternative to full-fat version. Get your hands on raw cacao powder and your version will have more antioxidants than red wine! Mix with warm low fat milk and 1 teaspoon of honey for a delicious treat at roughly 133 calories a cup.
  • Dark Lindt 70% cocoa is another source of chocolate that’s rich in antioxidants. It still sets you back 52 calories per peace though, so eat with caution.

Make your own Choc Dippers

Another great option is to coat healthier or low-calorie foods in chocolate to seriously lower your calorie intake. Here is the EASIEST and healthiest formula for melted chocolate I know, a first-choice for fondue. Grab your favourite slab of dark chocolate (making sure it’s more than 70% cocoa) and simply stir in a little hot water at a time until you get to your preferred consistency. I guarantee this does not detract from flavor at all and it is hassle and complication free!

  • Strawberries
  • Marshmallows
  • Chopped bananas
  • Pretzels

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Easter2013Lisa 1

Lisa Raleigh

Fitness Trend Influencer, Wellness Activist, TV personality, Author, Lifestyle and Wellness Expert
www.lisaraleigh.co.za | lisa@lisaraleigh.co.za | www.facebook.com/LisaRaleighSA – Facebook | @LisaRaleighSA – Twitter | LisaRaleighTV – Youtube