Dark Chocolates: Nutrition and Facts
Dark chocolates are rich in antioxidants, and minerals like Iron, Magnesium, and zinc but may contain extra sugar, fats, and calories. Read this mini blog to learn more.
Any Chocolate that contains a minimum of 50% cocoa solids is considered Dark Chocolate. Along with cocoa solids it also contains cocoa butter and sugar.
The three main types of cocoa beans are Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario, Forastero is the most commonly used.
The Cocoa present in Dark Chocolate contains flavanols, which gives it a bitter taste.
Dark Chocolate with higher Cocoa content is more nutritious.
It is a calorie-dense food, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Dark Chocolate is high in fiber.
It provides many health benefits such as improved heart health and decreased inflammation.
(G.I.) The glycemic Index of Dark chocolate is 23, which is low. It means it is healthy and doesn’t rapidly increase blood sugar levels.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 gm of Dark Chocolate with 70 to 85% cocoa solids contain the following macronutrients and minerals.
Dark Chocolates also contain several vitamins which are as follows.
Pros of Eating Dark Chocolate
· Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that reduce free radicals.
· It improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure.
· Dark Chocolate reduces Bad Cholesterol (LDL) and Triglycerides.
· It reduces the risk of Cardiovascular diseases.
· Dark Chocolates contain bioactive compounds that are good for skin health.
· Dark Chocolate can improve Brain Function.
· It can help reduce Inflammation.
· Dark Chocolate may lower sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance.
· It can stimulate Sex drive.
Cons of Eating Dark Chocolate
· Caffeine in Dark Chocolate may cause headaches.
· Dark chocolate may cause teeth stains and weaken the enamel.
· Excess eating of Dark Chocolate can cause Heartburn.
· Consuming too much Dark Chocolate can cause constipation.
· Too much Dark Chocolate can cause dehydration.
· Dark Chocolate is a calorie-dense food, excess eating can cause weight gain.
· Some low-quality Dark chocolate may contain vegetable oils, butter fat, and artificial flavors which are not good for health.
Interesting Facts
· Ivory Coast is the world’s largest cocoa bean-producing country.
· Ancient Mayans and Aztecs used cocoa beans as a currency.
· 400 cocoa beans make one pound of chocolate.
· Snickers is the world’s largest selling Chocolate Bar.