Let’s face it: motherhood can often feel like an uphill battle. Between catering to everyone’s needs—fetching snacks, wiping runny noses, and constantly cleaning—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and underappreciated. Sure, there are those fleeting moments of joy, but they often get overshadowed by the never-ending cycle of responsibilities. And let’s not even start on the elusive “me time.”
For many moms, a glass of wine or a cup of coffee at the end of a long day may seem like the go-to treat. These beverages are inexpensive, readily available, and manageable enough to enjoy during those rare moments of quiet. However, for me, coffee and alcohol are off the table due to my sensitive stomach. Both leave me feeling uneasy, and I can’t afford to be out of commission when the kids need me.
But don’t shed a tear for me just yet. I have a secret weapon that rivals wine and coffee: chocolate. Yes, that’s right—dark chocolate, to be specific. Each week, as I wrap up my grocery shopping, I make a beeline for the chocolate aisle to select a couple of premium bars. The kind made from high-quality cacao, sweetened with “evaporated cane sugar,” and sprinkled with “pure Madagascar vanilla paste.” It’s my little indulgence, and I keep it hidden in a cupboard that my kids haven’t discovered yet.
Throughout my day, I sneak bites of chocolate—usually while my preschooler devours his lunch or when I’m juggling household tasks. At around 4 PM, when I feel like I’m running on empty, I reach for a square or two. And yes, I treat myself to a piece or two after the kids are asleep. Unlike coffee, chocolate’s caffeine content doesn’t keep me up at night.
The benefits of chocolate go beyond sheer enjoyment. It’s filled with antioxidants and flavanols that contribute to heart health, improve blood flow, and even help with blood clotting. But more importantly, it can elevate my mood. Science backs this up—chocolate consumption can trigger the release of endorphins, the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals. I could sure use a dose of those when my child decides to wear his underwear on his head during playtime.
Of course, indulging in chocolate can have its drawbacks, especially when it comes to my waistline. I do my best to keep portions in check and choose options that minimize added sugars. But let’s be real, there are days when I overindulge, and my body pays the price. Still, the joy that chocolate brings makes it all worth it. Motherhood isn’t always pretty, and sometimes, we need to make choices that preserve our sanity.
So, yes, I proudly identify as a chocoholic—and I make no apologies for it. Also, I have no intention of sharing.
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Summary
Motherhood can feel like an endless cycle of demands and responsibilities, leaving little room for personal indulgence. While many mothers turn to wine or coffee, chocolate serves as a delightful alternative for those with sensitivities. Packed with mood-boosting properties, chocolate offers a sweet escape from the chaos of parenting.