With the exception of turkey at Thanksgiving, possibly no food is so closely linked with a holiday as chocolate is with Valentine's Day. But now that the decade, the century and the millennium have turned, many people are likewise turning over a new leaf and beginning programs of healthier diets and exercise.
Balance is the key.
Robinson, who is also a registered dietitian, said chocolate, at the tip of the food pyramid with condiments such as mayonnaise and ketchup, can be enjoyed in limited amounts to supplement the flavor and enjoyment of healthier foods. For children who might appreciate a special Valentine's Day treat, she suggested a cup of hot cocoa made with milk and garnished with a peppermint stick. And a bouquet of flowers would be a nice touch. Chocolate lovers can take heart for another reason too. Research is revealing new information about the dietary advantages of chocolate.