CONTENTS

• Dark chocolate and its nutritional values
• Is dark chocolate healthy?
• Benefits of dark chocolate

Among lovers of sweetness, dark chocolate is known primarily for its distinctive flavor. The high cocoa content (from 60 to even 99%) determines the slightly tart and bitter taste, but is also responsible for the beneficial properties of dark chocolate.

Dark chocolate and its nutritional values

Dark chocolate is considered a healthy alternative to other sweets, including other types of chocolate. Is it rightly considered a valuable substitute?

Calories

Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (80-90%) can contain as much as 590 kcal per 100 g (equivalent to about 35 kcal per 6 g cube). That's a lot, but it's important to remember that the calorific value of chocolate depends on the cocoa content—and thus also on the amount of valuable ingredients. For comparison, chocolate with 65% cocoa mass contains 502 kcal/100 g, but more sugar.

Nutritional values:

Good-quality dark chocolate is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and fiber. Cocoa also contains high levels of vitamins (including B vitamins A and E) and minerals (calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, and magnesium). Dark chocolate also provides polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant properties and small amounts of caffeine.

For this reason, dark chocolate is recommended for people who are working on a weight-loss diet and athletes. Seniors, students, and teenagers should also opt for a cocoa-rich snack.

Is dark chocolate healthy?

So, is dark chocolate healthy? The more cocoa it contains, the more valuable it is. Therefore, connoisseurs of this snack should choose chocolate with the highest cocoa content. This way, the calories it contains aren't "empty" but provide the body with nutrients as well as energy. Remember, however, to eat it in moderation.

Dark chocolate has a low glycemic index and therefore doesn't cause rapid blood sugar spikes. For comparison, dark chocolate has a glycemic index of 22, while milk chocolate has a glycemic index of 49.

If you're not used to the taste of very dark chocolate, it's worth choosing dark chocolate with added ingredients. It's best to choose products with a low sugar content, such as those with added sea salt, chili, or orange peel.

Dark chocolate and its benefits

Dark chocolate owes its properties to the cocoa it contains. How does it affect the body? First of all, it's known as a remedy for malaise—and this is confirmed. The B vitamins, caffeine, and theobromine contained in chocolate stimulate the nervous system, provide energy, and improve concentration and mood.

Regularly consuming small portions of dark chocolate also helps combat the effects of stress and tension, thanks to the antioxidants it contains. The compounds found in chocolate also have a strengthening effect on the immune system.

A cube of dark chocolate proves to be an excellent snack during physical and mental exertion, such as during intensive studies.

Good dark chocolate can also have benefits for cardiovascular function, as it supports the maintenance of normal cholesterol levels. This helps reduce the risk of more serious diseases related to heart or brain function. The magnesium contained in chocolate also has a positive effect on muscle health, protecting against recurrence of cramps and helping to strengthen blood vessel walls.