Chocolate. Red wine. The two conjure images of decadence and relaxation. But have you ever considered that chocolate and red wine are also good for your physical and mental health? 

On Thursday, Dec. 4, the John Muir Women's Health Center's Women's Heart Program will bring author and speaker Debra Waterhouse to Brentwood's Shadow Lakes Golf to discuss the connections between food cravings and female health. A registered dietician master of public health, Waterhouse believes that when we listen to ourselves, we can understand the need for instinctive food, positive moods and a healthy body.

Consider the following:

Chocolate is a natural stress reducer. It releases the calming brain chemical serotonin that relaxes us when we're feeling overwhelmed and anxious.

Chocolate is low in caffeine. One ounce contains only 6 mg of caffeine compared to the 180 mg in a cup of coffee.

Both chocolate and red wine contain antioxidants and prevent molecules known as free radicals from causing cellular damage in the body.

Moderate amounts of alcohol can raise your good cholesterol (HDL cholesterol) and thin your blood. This is one of the primary cardiovascular benefits of wine.

Waterhouse's books include Outsmarting the Female Fat Cell, Why Women Need Chocolate and Outsmarting Female Fatigue. According to Waterhouse, Contrary to popular belief, food cravings are not a problem to be treated, but a blessing to be encouraged.

The Wine, Women and Chocolate event will run from 6:30 to 9 p.m. In addition to Waterhouse, Dr. Kristine Batten, cardiologist and medical director of the Women's Heart Program at the Women's Health Center, will also speak.

The free event includes complimentary chocolate and wine, plus light refreshments. Pre-registration is required. For information, visit www.johnmuirhealth.com/whcclasses or call 925-941-7900.

This is the event's second year and the first time it is being held in Brentwood. We are excited to bring this event to Brentwood, said Kaplan. Brentwood has a vibrant community and we felt this event was well suited for the women of Brentwood. A night of chocolate and wine alongside dynamic speakers and useful information it is sure to be a fun and relaxing evening for all.