Fitness for Mind, Body and Spirit

There is nothing like the thoughtful gift of a calorie filled box of chocolates to make you smile and ruin your diet on Valentine’s Day. So how do you resist the sweet taste of chocolate? Well first of all allow yourself one piece per day. Remember that there is approximately 200 calories per piece, give or take depending on the brand and type of candy. But research has shown that completely denying yourself can lead to over indulgence later on. You are also more likely to eat five or ten pieces if you are cheating on your diet. So if you allow yourself one every day you can make up for it with some simple exercises. Cleaning or gardening for 40 minutes burns about 200 calories. Using a stair climber or similar equipment for 30 minutes is also about 200 calories. The key is balancing what you eat with how much you burn. Another great tip for Valentine’s Day candy…share it!