Got Milk? "Shake it up" ...with Chocolate!

Over the past few years, dark chocolate has become a staple in our diet.  What with all those  "cell-protecting flavanol antioxidant compounds",  who could resist a square or two a day? 

Besides  putting you in a feel-good mood,  they increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and enhance blood flow to the brain.  Just two tablespoons of natural cocoa have more antioxidant capacity than 3 ½ cups of green tea, ¾ cup of blueberries and 1 1/3 glasses of red wine.

Mix cocoa with protein rich milk and you'll get 16 grams of protien to  repair the muscle you just tore down.  The cocoa also has  6 grams of fiber,  and a chemical called theobromine which acts like caffeine for another energy kick!  Try my recipe for a  powerful post-workout recovery drink that will have you sprinting for the blender! 

Cocoa Moo
1 1/2 cup  Calorie Countdown non-fat milk by Hood
4 frozen chocolate milk ice cubes (make ahead of time)
2 level Tablespoons  dark cocoa unsweetened powder
2 Splenda

* Blend until smooth and thick