So we all know by now (well, if you didn’t, now you do…) that I’m a recovering sugarholic, especially when it comes in the form of chocolate. That stuff is nasty; just when you think you’re so over it, it tries to drag you in again with its promises of satisfaction and its oh-so-sweet nothings. It really is a hard addiction to overcome, believe you me (and I’m sure most of you have had experience with this as well). For some people, it’s best to avoid it all together. But can’t they have just a little bit, once in a while? Well, it may be doing them more harm than good, both physically and mentally. Why? Because when you allow yourself just that little bit, your body wants more! More! More! Please can I have some more?! So, some of us have to stay away for good, as best we can. But hey, if you’re the type who can have a little bit here and there without that causing your addiction to come back in full force, then all the power to you. Just remember to avoid the white, refined stuff as much as possible, and instead choose raw sugar or sucanat (keeping in mind that stevia, honey, and maple syrup are better options).

Now that you know my sugar troubles, my next piece of information might have more significance to you: my boyfriend’s mom works at the Cadbury factory. You know, the place where they make melt-in-your-mouth, delectable, ooey-gooey goodness called chocolate? Yup, that’s where. And since I’m human, I sometimes struggle with the fact that there are chocolate bars within reach basically every time I’m there. But not just regular chocolate bars, oh no. ‘Tis the season for Mini Eggs, egg-shaped chocolates (plus the ones with caramel), and Creme Eggs. Hm. On the one hand, delicious. But yet on the other, would only lead me back to my cravings and not-fun symptoms. Oh, what is a nutritionist to do? Take the high road on behalf of the world of holistic nutrition and all of my clients and readers, or give in to temptation, since I am, after all, only human?

I literally picked up a chocolate bar today and had a 5-second (silent) debate with myself. I knew that I was craving it because my blood sugar needed balancing (it was after a Zumba class), and also because, well, the taste of chocolate makes me happy. But you know what I did? I promised myself that when I got home, I would make something just as satisfying, but way more fulfilling and healthy.

And the chocolate bar went down (back to where it came from, that is, not into my belly).

And alas, the creation of Happy Hemp Squares. They definitely make me happy, and I think they’ll do the same for you, too. Enjoy… and don’t forget to share. 🙂

Happy Hemp Squares

1 cup almond butter
1 cup honey
1 cup large flake oats
1 cup almonds, roughly chopped
1 cup hemp hearts
1 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup sesame seeds
2 cups brown rice cereal
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, but I mean, come on)

Heat almond butter and honey over low to medium heat, stirring often. When heated through, stir in remaining ingredients, adding chocolate chips at the end. Spread into 8×13″ pan and refrigerate for approximately 1 hour. Cut into squares and enjoy!