Although I lack in the sweet tooth department, some (or most) of you are the exact opposite. And during the Holy Month of Ramadan, it might be tempting to give in to those special Ramadan chocolates, especially after long periods of fasting. Sarah Benkhalifa of Belvas Belgian Chocolates is sharing with us some very healthy ways you can enjoy Ramadan chocolates without compromising on your diet.

According to Sarah, Ramadan chocolates and desserts make up an essential component that completes the Iftar and seasonal gifting experience. But as people are becoming more health conscious they look for healthier alternatives to satisfy their sweet tooth. Confectioners and chocolatiers are now offering an array of healthier indulgences that have organic, gluten-free, sugar-free and vegan properties.

Benefits of Chocolates

There is considerable evidence that cocoa provides powerful health benefits for a healthy happy heart. This includes the protection against cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance that could lead to diabetes. Dark chocolate, with its nutritive content and antioxidants, also contains serotonin that can elevate your mood, inspiring a healthy body and happy mind.

However, with all its wonderful qualities and delicious flavor, chocolate must be consumed in moderation, and in accordance with an individual’s lifestyle and eating choices.

Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark – How to Choose Ramadan Chocolates

When choosing a chocolate brand, you should be looking out for ones that are high in quality and as close to raw chocolate as possible, while still being appetizing. Milk chocolate and white chocolate can contain high quantities of sugar, so the darker the better.

Make sure you read the labels and look out for chocolate with a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher. Also, assess the type of sweetener used in its preparation, whether it’s made with honey, natural sweeteners like stevia and lo han, or less processed sugar such as cane sugar. Ideally, it is preferable to limit your intake to smaller amounts of chocolate eaten at intervals once you have broken your fast.

RELATED: Ramadan Skincare Tips

Healthy Ways to Include Chocolates in Your Ramadan Diet

Indulge in plain dark chocolate or use it as a healthier option in the baking of cakes, brownies, cookies or tarts.
Replace your dessert with fruit where applicable. Drizzle strawberries, pineapples or bananas with dark chocolate, or dip it into a dark chocolate fondue.
Combine dates, cocoa, nuts and coconut oil for a power packed energy bar to replenish any energy lost during the fasting period.
Invest in the healthy preparation for your traditional desserts. Bake your Qatayef instead of frying it. Use skimmed milk in the making of your Mohalabiya or Custard. Substitute ghee or butter with canola or olive oil and sugar for honey, limiting the amount of sugar syrup in pastries.

And if you decide to go straight for the Belvas Belgian Chocolates, below are a few options Sarah has chosen for you; depending on your taste.

Chocolate Hearts: Fairtrade, Gluten-free, Sugar-free, Vegan