While you’ll never tear us away from our cup of coffee, there are times, we have to admit, when only a hot chocolate quite hits the mark. Forever associated in our minds with comfort and cosiness, the colder it gets outside the more people crave it. A mug of hot chocolate at the end of a long walk is our idea of heaven, and if – every so often – you add a couple mini marshmallows, some chocolate shavings and maybe just a tiny dollop of cream – well, who’s counting?
Now, we’re not claiming that hot chocolate is a health drink – after all, the mix contains sugar and fat as well as cocoa – but consumed in moderation (ideally after a long walk or skiing down a mountain!) it can really lift your mood. If you’re drinking it regularly, perhaps think about laying off the cream and biscuits on the side, though! Good quality chocolate contains antioxidants which have a range of health benefits, and also flavenoids which can act as a temporary energy and memory booster. Hot chocolate contains more antioxidants than you’ll find in a comparatively sized bar, and the hot temperature means they’re released more efficiently.