We all love chocolate! It is the ultimate treat, but, contrary to what you think, does not have to be a guilty pleasure. We are here to answer an important questions: is chocolate good or bad for you?

What nutrients does chocolate have?

A quality 100gm bar of 70-85% cocoa chocolate contains:

• 11 grams of fiber
• 67% of daily requirement for iron
• 58% of daily requirement for magnesium
• 89% of daily requirement for copper
• 98% of daily requirement for manganese
• It is rich in potassium, phosphorus, zinc and selenium

How is chocolate good for my health?

Aside from being rich in nutrients, chocolate is a great natural source of antioxidants and moderate amounts of caffeine. 

Antioxidants occur in plant based foods. These are substances that can slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that our bodies produce as a result of stress or being in unhealthy environment. Same antioxidants reduce insulin resistance, a condition that can lead to diabetes.

Caffeine is a source of energy and a natural brain stimulant. In excessive amounts it is harmful, however chocolate only contains minimal amounts which are safe for consumption.

Dark chocolate can also help to lower blood pressure. Flavanols, that naturally occurs in cocoa, signal the arteries to relax, which lowers the tension and body’s resistance to healthy blood flow. As a result, chocolate can contribute to reducing the risk of heart attacks.

Can chocolate be included in a healthy diet?

As you can see, there are many benefits to adding chocolate to your diet, yet there are several things to be aware of:

• Chocolate is high in sugar

An average chocolate bar contains around 45-50gm of sugar. Sugar causes disbalance in our insulin and energy levels. Harmful bacteria in our bodies and digestive tract thrive on the sweet subtstance. It can give us a rush of energy, only to have them crashing down later. High sugar intake is extremely dangerous for people with diabetes.

• Sugar in chocolate makes it addictive

When people say that chocolate is addictive, the truth behind it is that the sugar is. Eating sugar releases opioids and dopamine in our bodies, which gives us the ‘happy’ and elated feeling. Our brains immediately draw the connection and we are accustomed to the dopamine reward cycle. 

• Low quality chocolate is not nutritious 

The world is full of low quality chocolate: the products that contain numerous synthetic substitutes, low grade ingredients, high levels of sugar and taste enhancers. You must be very careful to select chocolate with highest cocoa content and only chose trusted producers.

At Sehaty we choose Belvas chocolate, because it has an extensive sugar and gluten free range. Only the top tier grade cocoa is used in its production. Its sugar free range uses inline, which is a natural sweetener that is rich in fibre. Lastly, and most importantly, there is no compromise on flavor. Enjoy the benefits of chocolate with Belvas.