Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK
Healthy Heart Tip: Alternatives to chocolate for a healthier Easter
Easter weekend marks the end of Lent and this is a time when chocolate eggs are traditionally exchanged with family and friends. Chocolate is high in fat, saturated fat and sugar and consuming too much can increase your risk of weight-gain and heart disease. In this healthy tip, we provide ideas for cutting back on chocolate this Easter.
Avoid temptation when shopping for groceries
Long rows of chocolate eggs appear in supermarkets several weeks before Easter and it can be difficult to avoid temptation. Easter-themed treats are often heavily discounted in the weeks following Easter, which adds to the temptation. Avoid visiting the Easter-themed aisles in supermarkets and try to stay focused on your grocery shopping and finding healthier snacks.
Buy non-edible Easter gifts
A large Easter egg can contain your entire daily energy requirement. Replacing Easter eggs with non-edible gifts, such as toys, games, books, egg cups or flowers, can be a way to help your loved ones avoid over-indulging this Easter.
Get outdoors and step away from the chocolate
Make the most of the Spring weather and get outdoors. Remember to leave the chocolate and other high-calorie Easter treats at home. Going for a walk, run or bike ride can be a good way to shift your focus away from food and stay healthy.
We hope you have a happy and healthy Easter holiday!
For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www.heartresearch.org.uk/healthy-tips.
To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-recipes-2/.
Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers:
https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-cookbook/.
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