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Most of what we read about cravings for chocolate, and cravings in general, is that they are caused because one receives some amount of pleasure in the craved-foods' consumption.  Chocolate has been found to actually raise levels of the neorotransmitter seratonin in the brain; thus, it actually does simulate pleasure to the height of possible addiction.  People will strive to chase that pleasurable feeling so as to ensure that the feeling never subsides.

Some write-ups have advised that a chocolate craving could be the cause of low-blood sugar or the body's need to combat fatigue; however, a new insight into this craving claims that it could also be caused by the body's deficiency in magnesium and B vitamins, especially B6 and B12.  B vitamins help the body metabolize food and keep the body energized in order for the system to run more smoothly.  So, if you find yourself craving chocolate often and you are concerned with your weight-loss goals, perhaps see whether or not the root of the problem may be a deficiency in necessary nutrients that you can actually get while consuming more eggs and turkey for B12 and more chicken and cashews for B6.

What on earth are triglycerides and why should I worry about my levels?

Triglycerides are "the chemical form in which most fat exists in food as well as in the body. They're also present in blood plasma and, in association with cholesterol, form the plasma lipids."  The body gains these triglycerides through the food that we consume; thus, it is important that we first monitor our food intake.  Triglycerides are largely controlled by our own personal choices: obesity and alcoholism tend to raise the levels and can lead one to coronary artery disease.  A simple blood plasma test can show whether or not one has a high level of triglycerides, or hypertriglyceridemia and then a radical lifestyle change is in order.  The way to combat hypertriglyceridemia is to keep moving, so if you are sitting down to read this get up and get out!

Cardio is the best way to manage your weight, your calories, and dangerous triglycerides.  Join a class, bring a buddy, keep it different, but do find time to get in the cardio workout for overall health and wellness.

Many celebrity chefs are making their voices heard in moving to healthier choices for all Americans, most of all, the kids.  Rachel Ray, Paula Deen (known for her uper fattening, southern cooking) and Jamie Oliver are just some of the celebrity chefs pioneering the movement for healthier choices to be available and accessible to all Americans.  Even Sesame Street is getting involved with promoting healthy eating choices to pre-schoolers after hiring Oprah Winfrey's former chef, Art Smith, as its healthy eating advisor.

The nice thing about the current healthy eating movement is the focus is not on restricting our diets by eliminating carbs or protein or fat, but rather on eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables.  The old regime of low-fat, no fat, low carb are no longer viewed as the best way to lose weight because these foods are so highly processed.  So, when you head to the supermarket, stick to the 4 outside walls, and avoid the aisles with all the processed food choices. 

A recently published article on CNNhealth.com looked at the many benefits to group boxing classes and boxing as a form of exercise in general.  The article touted boxing as an excellent form of exercise for cardiovascular endurance and increasing strength.  Boxing used to be thought of as a combat sport involving two combatants and four gloves swinging.  However, this is no longer the case.  Now, boxing is viewed as a great form of exercise, that when taught by a well-trained instructor, can be injury free and quite a calorie burner!  Add in the class environment and you have a recipe for success!  Group boxing classes are appealing to more and more women, so ladies, glove up and get ready to punch!