Are you a chocolate lover watching your calorie intake? Look no further than 2 pieces (50 g) of Dark 85% Cocoa. With only 320 calories, you can indulge in the rich, satisfying taste of dark chocolate while also meeting your nutritional goals.
In addition to its low calorie content, Dark 85% Cocoa is also a great source of macronutrients. Each serving contains 19 grams of healthy Fats, 8 grams of Protein, and 17 grams of Carbohydrates.
In this article, we'll explore the various health benefits of this delicious snack and provide tips for incorporating it into your diet.
Calories and Macronutrients
As we mentioned earlier, 2 pieces (50 g) of Dark 85% Cocoa contain only 320 calories. This makes it a great snack option for those who are trying to cut down on their calorie intake but still satisfy their sweet tooth. In addition to its low calorie content, dark 85% cocoa is also a great source of healthy Fats, with 19 grams per serving. These fats help to keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it easier to stick to your healthy eating plan. Finally, dark 85% cocoa is also a great source of Carbohydrates, with 17 grams per serving. These carbs help to give you a quick burst of energy, making it a great snack option for athletes or anyone who needs a quick pick-me-up during the day.
Healthy Fats
Dark 85% Cocoa is a great source of healthy Fats, which help to keep your body functioning properly. These fats are important for brain health, hormone production, and a healthy immune system. In addition, healthy fats are also an important part of a weight loss plan. When you consume healthy fats, you feel fuller for longer, which can help you to reduce your overall calorie intake.
Antioxidant Properties
Dark 85% Cocoa is also a great source of Antioxidants, which help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. These free radicals can contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. The antioxidants found in dark chocolate are known as flavonoids, which have been shown to have a range of health benefits. Research has linked flavonoids to a reduced risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improved blood flow to the brain.
Low Sugar Content
One of the biggest benefits of Dark 85% Cocoa is its Low sugar content. Unlike milk chocolate, which can be loaded with sugar, dark chocolate contains only a small amount of sugar. This makes it a great choice for people with diabetes or anyone who is trying to cut down on their sugar intake. In addition, the low sugar content of dark chocolate means that it has a lower glycemic index than other types of chocolate, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Satisfying Snack Option
Dark 85% Cocoa is a satisfying snack option that can help to curb your Cravings for sweets. Its rich, intense flavor satisfies your taste buds, while its macronutrient profile keeps you feeling full and satisfied. In addition, the Antioxidants and healthy Fats found in dark chocolate help to keep your body functioning properly, which can make it easier to resist the temptation to snack on unhealthy foods.
Dark Chocolate and Mood
Believe it or not, eating dark chocolate can actually improve your mood. The flavonoids found in dark chocolate have been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, which can improve cognitive function and boost your mood. In addition, dark chocolate contains a small amount of Caffeine, which can give you an energy boost and help to improve your mood.
Portion Control
While Dark 85% Cocoa can be a healthy snack option, it's important to practice portion control. Eating too much dark chocolate can lead to weight gain and other health issues. A Serving size of dark 85% cocoa is 2 pieces (50 g). Enjoying this amount of dark chocolate as a snack is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Caffeine Content
Dark 85% Cocoa contains a small amount of Caffeine, which can give you an energy boost and help to improve your mental clarity. However, it's important to remember that consuming too much caffeine can lead to negative side effects such as jitters, anxiety, and insomnia. If you're sensitive to caffeine, it's best to limit your consumption of dark chocolate.
Suitable for Baking
Dark 85% Cocoa is a great ingredient for baking. Its rich, intense flavor adds depth to baked goods such as Brownies, cookies, and Cakes. Using dark chocolate in your baking also adds nutritional value to your recipes, as it is a great source of healthy Fats, Antioxidants, and other important micronutrients.
Variety of Recipes
There are endless ways to enjoy Dark 85% Cocoa. From dipping fruit in melted dark chocolate to adding it to your morning smoothie, the possibilities are endless. Consider adding dark chocolate to your breakfast oatmeal for a satisfying and nutritious start to your day. Or enjoy a few pieces of dark chocolate as an afternoon snack to keep your hunger at bay.
Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve blood flow to the brain.
FAQs About Dark 85% Cocoa
1. How many calories are in 2 pieces (50 g) of Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate?
There are 320 calories in 2 pieces (50 g) of Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate.
2. Is Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate healthy?
Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate is considered healthy in moderation due to its high cocoa content which is rich in Antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. However, it is still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
3. Does Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate contain Caffeine?
Yes, Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate contains caffeine. The amount of caffeine varies depending on the brand and type of chocolate, but on average, a 50g serving contains approximately 40mg of caffeine.
4. Is Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate vegan?
Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate is typically vegan-friendly as it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. However, it is important to check the label to ensure that there are no added dairy, honey, or other non-vegan ingredients.
5. Can Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate be part of a weight-loss diet?
While Dark 85% Cocoa chocolate can be part of a weight-loss diet in moderation, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes and calorie intake. It is also important to choose high-quality chocolate that is low in added sugar and other unhealthy additives.