#NationalHotChocolateDay

Tomorrow is National Hot Chocolate Day. That delicious chocolatey warm drink that can warm your heart on a cold winter’s day.

A quick history lesson  . . .

Back in the 1800’s, a father and son helped create the cocoa powder you use in your drink. 

Casparus van Houten Sr. figured out how to separate the cocoa solids from the butter.  His son, Coenraad Johannes was the one who made the fats more soluble in water.  Both together created cocoa powder perfect for hot chocolate.

You and I know that hot chocolate is delicious.  We also know that hot chocolates can be high in sugar.  The great news is that if you are diabetic and watching your blood sugar you can still enjoy a cup!

How can I enjoy hot chocolate as a diabetic?

You can keep your glucose levels down and drink hot chocolate if you watch your ingredients.

Ingredients  . . .

You should start with a high quality cocoa powder that is organic and low in sugar. Ghiradelli Unsweetened Dutch Process Cocoa or Hershey’s Special Dark 100% Cacao are both good options.

Next, choose unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to your cocoa with a dash of salt.  

For sweetness you can add stevia which is natural and sugar-free.  It comes in liquid or powder form.

Instructions . . .

Heat the milk until it’s hot but not boiling.  Add two to three tablespoons of cocoa and mix.  Finally add your sugar-free sweetener.  Heat a bit more, then enjoy!

Private Home Health Care knows that hot chocolate can reduce your blood pressure and increase brain function.  It’s also good for the soul on a cold day.