When it comes to chocolate, we like to enjoy it but which one is Nutritionist approved?
What makes chocolate healthy is the cocoa powder (listed as "cocoa solids" in the ingredients list). What makes chocolate unhealthy is the milk solids (usually poor quality milk powder) and refined sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Cocoa powder is loaded with antioxidants, flavonoids and minerals such as magnesium and potassium which are important for heart health and weight loss. Cocoa also contains fibre to help you feel fuller for longer. The “undutched” chocolate varieties are healthiest because they are not treated with alkali to remove the healthful antioxidants and flavonoids.
Dark chocolate contains the least amount of sugar and the most cocoa, compared to milk and white chocolate. The higher the percentage of cocoa added in dark chocolate, the less sugar it contains. You can find 99% cocoa dark chocolate, if you are fond of its bitter taste but superb nutrition.
If you're not fond of dark chocolate, Start with 65% cocoa dark chocolate and increase the percentage slowly as your taste buds adjust.
Undutched dark chocolate will ensure the healthful antioxidants and flavonoids are preserved for its health benefits such as Lindt 85%, Ghirardelli, Green and Blacks, PANA, Alter Eco or Hu dark chocolate.
Happy snacking,
Comments