Winter, rain, cold, lightning and thunder: all these make us want to stay at home, curl up under the duvet, and binge on Netflix. And what could be better than adding to all this goodness a pampering and steaming chocolate drink? If you are concerned about the presence of chocolate and sugar in the drink, here are some simple tips published by the UAE Health Council, which will make the popular children’s drink (and not only) even healthier.

Use dark chocolate, as it is rich in antioxidants called “flavonols”, which help protect against cardiovascular diseases.

Add cinnamon, because it helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the body’s cells to utilize the hormone insulin.

Avoid sugar. An average small cup of chocolate contains five teaspoons of sugar. You can make a healthier drink by using unsweetened dark chocolate and adding warm low-fat milk, plant-based milk or water.

Dark chocolate contains much less sugar and calories than milk chocolate, or white chocolate mixed with milk powder or condensed milk.

Studies have found that eating a small piece of dark chocolate every day may have a positive effect on heart health and reduce the risk of diabetes.

But does that mean allowing yourself to eat an endless amount of it? The answer is no. Dark chocolate contains a lot of a compound called theobromine, which is a known nervous system stimulant related to caffeine. Studies have found that eating large amounts can increase the heart rate and spoil the mood.