Updated: 02/09/2023
You know that feeling when you take a bite of chocolate? Yea it feels good right?! There’s actually a scientific reason behind it! But first let’s dive into a little history on chocolate and the difference between each type that are commonly sold in the store.
Getting to Know Your Chocolate
Did you know that chocolate was deemed a symbol of luxury and power in as early as 1900 B.C.? In fact, it was only consumed in it’s bitter form as a drink until the mid-1800s. In 1847, the first chocolate candy bar was created by a British company using cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and sugar.
Chocolate goes back a long way, but is one better over the other?
There are three main types of chocolate typically sold in stores: milk, white, and dark.
Milk chocolate is the most widely consumed chocolate in the U.S. and contains exactly what you would expect – milk. It also contains varying amounts of sugar based on the manufacturer. Milk chocolate must contain at least 10% cocoa.
White chocolate does not contain any cocoa. This makes it a suitable alternative for those prone to developing oxalate kidney stones looking for a sugar fix as cocoa is high in oxalates. Unfortunately, this means white chocolate does not provide any health benefit and should be consumed sparingly.
For chocolate to be considered “dark” or “bittersweet” it must contain at least 35% cocoa.
What does the research say?
The higher the cocoa percentage, the less added sugar chocolate contains. Too much added sugar can actually negate the anti-inflammatory health benefits from cocoa. I recommend aiming for a dark chocolate bar that contains at least 70% cocoa. That’s good news for you dark chocolate lovers out there! Be sure to check out Theo chocolate made in Seattle! (This is not an affiliate link, I just really like their chocolate!)
A study consisting of more than 20,000 men and women regarding habitual chocolate consumption showed significance in reducing risk of future cardiovascular events compared to those who did not consume chocolate. More specifically, the flavanols found in cocoa have been shown to reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels.
Cocoa has also been shown to benefit brain health by improving blood flow and helping with relaxation. Chocolate contains the amino acid tryptophan which is needed to make serotonin. This neurotransmitter has many functions in the body other than improving your mood. It also aids in digestion and promotes wound healing.
How can you add in more dark chocolate and cocoa to your day?
- Pair 1 square of 70% dark chocolate with 1/2 cup fresh berries or 1-2 dates and 1/2 oz of walnuts for a satisfying sweet snack.
- Add 2 tsp of unsweetened cocoa powder to your morning protein smoothie or oatmeal. Check out one of my recipes: Cinnamon chocolate oatmeal.