National Hot Chocolate Day

It’s the end of January and we’re all outside enjoying skiing, sledding, skating, ice fishing, and a wide array of winter sports and activities. A steamy mug of hot chocolate is just what you need to warm your innards and put a smile on your face. For many of us, it’s the drink of choice after coming in from the cold. So, it is very fitting that today is National Hot Chocolate Day, a January 31 holiday. After taking off your winter clothes and boots, warm up by the fireside with a mug of hot chocolate.

We all giggle when someone says chocolate is good for you because it comes from the cacao bean which is a vegetable. But, the cocoa in chocolate is indeed good for your health. First, cocoa is high in flavanols which helps to reduce blood cholesterol. It is low in caffeine. And, it contains antioxidants which are good for heart health. Antioxidants also slow the aging process. Hot chocolate has many useful minerals vitamins and minerals. Finally, we all agree that a mug of hot chocolate relaxes us and puts us in the mood for a good night’s sleep.