Along with flowers and jewelry, sugar is a go-to gift for Valentine's Day. Whether you're giving candy to a sweetheart or indulging your own sweet tooth, follow these tips from registered dietitian Karen Ansel, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:
Steer toward chocolate. The cocoa in chocolate contains heart-healthy antioxidants called flavonols that help lower blood pressure and relax blood vessels. Popular alternatives such as Sweet Tarts, Red Hots and gummy candies, on the other hand, are like eating pure sugar with no benefits.