Is it possible to eat chocolate which is not? Bitter chocolate - composition, calorie content, useful properties and harm for men, women and for weight loss

Irina Kamshilina

Cooking for someone is much more pleasant than for yourself))

Content

How pleasant it is to eat a slice of this favorite delicacy! Very little is needed to improve mood in adults and children. There are many myths and speculations about the benefits and health risks of this product. What is the reality, who can consume chocolate without consequences?

The benefits of dark chocolate

A natural product without additives in the composition can be used as a medicine, if the dosage is not overused. The benefits of dark chocolate are based on the positive properties of the cocoa beans. If a person consumes 20 grams of goodies daily, these are:

• stimulates cerebral circulation;
• activates the production of the hormone of joy;
• strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
• reduces the risk of stroke;
• lowers cholesterol levels;
• serves as the prevention of atherosclerosis;
• normalizes blood pressure;
• soothes cough (thanks to theobromine component);
• strengthens bones due to the presence of calcium.

Why is dark chocolate useful? The use of a small amount of it, in contrast to milk, improves performance, health, and counteracts diseases. Using:

• there is protection against oncology due to antioxidant properties;
• a stimulating effect is produced due to the presence of caffeine;
• aging slows down;
• the feeling of hunger decreases;
• depression is treated;
• weight loss;
• improves brain function;
• the body is saturated with vitamins;
• bleeding gums decreases;
• deficiency of zinc, magnesium, chromium is replenished.

Why dark chocolate is useful for women

Chocolate has a particular effect on the female body. The ingredients of the delicacy activate blood circulation, fat metabolism, therefore, the use of the product in cosmetology has been so popular lately. The benefits of dark chocolate for women are noted, if you regularly do wraps, masks, massages with it:

• the signs of cellulite are eliminated;
• skin aging slows down;
• beauty is preserved;
• improves the structure, hair growth;
• small wrinkles are removed.

This product is included in the composition of diets, contributing to weight loss, and also has the property of treating skin diseases, reduces the risk of diabetes. Eating small amounts of sweetness is a positive remedy for:

• failure of the menstrual cycle;
• the need to restore ovarian function after childbirth;
• disorders of the thyroid gland;
• the appearance of unpleasant symptoms with menstruation and menopause.

The benefits of dark chocolate for men

Recent studies have proven that the treat is good for men too. If you consume a real, high-quality product little by little, you can maintain vigor and health for a long time. How is dark chocolate useful for men? If you eat a delicacy with natural ingredients, you can:

• to reduce the risk of diseases of the vascular system, heart - heart attack by 15%;
• to carry out the prevention of stroke;
• raise vitality;
• improve mood due to the formation of endorphins;
• increase masculine strength;
• increase libido;
• activate sex life - is an aphrodisiac.

Is it possible to eat dark chocolate on a diet

It is believed that the high calorie content of the product contributes to weight gain. This is true if you overuse the amount of food eaten. A few pieces a day will only help you lose weight, because the composition contains substances that stimulate fat burning. Bitter chocolate for weight loss is used in diets, because:

• decreases the level of cholesterol, blood sugar.
• metabolism accelerates;
• the work of the digestive tract improves;
• the elimination of toxins is activated;
• the feeling of hunger is prevented.

How many calories are in dark chocolate

The product is high in calories and, if consumed excessively, can cause fat deposition. One tile contains a fifth of the daily value. The calorie content of dark chocolate depends on the percentage of cocoa beans indicated on the package. The lower the value, the more sugar is included in the composition. This indicates that the calorie content of the product is higher (in the range of 400-610 kcal per 100 grams). For example, Elite, 75%, from the Babaevsky confectionery concern, has a nutritional value of 540 kcal.

Dark chocolate composition

Domestic manufacturers make a delicacy, observing GOST, where all the components are painted, their ratio in the composition. On the label there are numbers - percent, meaning the content of grated cocoa - it must be more than 55%. The higher the indicator, the better the quality, aroma and taste. The composition contains:

• cocoa beans, preferably raw. But more often in the production of grains they undergo fermentation, drying, roasting, thorough mixing at high temperatures;
• sugar - 20-40%.

The composition of dark chocolate contains vitamins, calcium and iron, magnesium and phosphorus, potassium. It contains carbohydrates, organic acids, monosaccharides, dietary fiber. Undesirable components are ethyl alcohol, vegetable fats, flavors. Mandatory ingredients of the product are:

• cocoa butter, the amount of which should be at least half the weight of the bar, the main component is saturated fat;
• lecithin - helps to create a homogeneous mass, is indicated on the package as "emulsifier E322" (vegetable or soy) or animal "emulsifier E476".

How to choose dark chocolate

To avoid fakes, when buying, you need to pay attention to a number of parameters. How to choose the right dark chocolate? If the delicacy is sold by weight, the tile should crack, crumble when breaking. Pay attention to the appearance:

• the color of the product should be dark brown - light indicates the addition of soy;
• the surface is smooth, glossy;
• there is no white bloom - a sign of improper storage.

For factory chocolate, the characteristics are written on the packaging. GOST R 52821-2007 should be mentioned - compliance with state standards. A quality product contains a minimum of unnecessary components. Necessarily indicated on the wrapper of the chocolate bar:

• high amount of grated cocoa - more than 70%;
• soy lecithin - "emulsifier E322";
• cocoa butter - not less than 33%.

The price of dark chocolate

You can buy a bitter delicacy in the nearest store, its cost is low. There are slight differences by brand. How much does dark chocolate cost? Price in rubles:

What is the best bitter chocolate in Russia

Many domestic confectionery factories produce this delicious delicacy. Below is the rating of dark chocolate in Russia, indicating the manufacturer:

• "Loyalty to Quality" - "A priori" 99%, 610 kcal, no sugar;
• "Russian Chocolate" - Elite bitter porous 70%, 526 kcal;
• Pobeda - Bitter 72%, natural sweetener, no sugar, 460 kcal;
• "Russia" - Bitter 72%, natural vanilla, stabilizer - milk fat, 583 kcal;
• Korkunov 72%, classic, 568 kcal.

Chocolate Babaevsky elite bitter

The Babaevsky Confectionery Concern has been successfully producing products of high quality and excellent taste for a long time. The bar of chocolate Babaevsky Elite 75% has a calorie content of 530 kcal / 100 grams, it contains proteins, dietary fiber, carbohydrates, fats. The product includes the following ingredients:

• grated cocoa;
• cocoa powder;
• sugar;
• cacao butter;
• animal lecithin E 476;
• flavoring "Vanilla";
• a small amount of nuts is permissible.

Sugar-free bitter chocolate Victory

A distinctive feature of this brand produced by the Pobeda factory is the replacement of beet sugar with vegetable sweetener - stevia, which is indicated on the package. This is how it looks in the photo. Pobeda bitter chocolate 72% has an energy value of 460 kcal, does not contain GMOs. The composition, in addition to proteins, carbohydrates, fats, contains the following ingredients:

• cocoa liquor;
• cocoa butter;
• natural prebiotic (inulin);
• cocoa powder;
• emulsifier (lecithin);
• flavoring (vanillin);
• natural sweetener stevia.

The Russian production, which has been making chocolate products since the 19th century, is famous for its excellent quality. Chocolate from the Red October factory has 80% calorie content of 550 kcal, it is prepared according to TU 9125-003-51938624. The composition contains more protein than other brands. The content of cocoa products is high, but cocoa powder is on the 3rd place in the list. There is more of it than cocoa butter, which is not a good option. The composition of chocolate, in addition to the necessary components, contains:

• soy lecithin;
• vanilla flavor.

How to make dark chocolate at home

Do you want to please your loved ones with a bitter chocolate treat? Make it with a homemade recipe. Ingredients can be ordered and purchased online at an affordable price. You will need 100 grams of cocoa beans and cocoa butter, 3 tablespoons of honey. Nuts, raisins, vanilla can be used as additives. To prepare chocolate you should:

• grind cocoa beans with a coffee grinder;
• melt cocoa butter in a water bath;
• mix, add additives;
• cool, add honey;
• put in molds;
• cool in the cold.

There is a more affordable recipe for homemade dark chocolate, in which the following components are: 50 grams of butter, 100 g of cocoa powder, a teaspoon of sugar. A delicacy is prepared in the following sequence:

• the butter is cut into pieces;
• melted in a water bath;
• cocoa powder intervenes;
• added sugar;
• the mass is poured into a mold covered with cling film;
• exposed to the cold.

The harm of dark chocolate

A delicacy with excellent taste and nutritional properties, not useful for everyone, especially in large quantities. Why is dark chocolate harmful? The reason lies in the components:

• sugar increases the acidity of the body, disrupts digestion, metabolic processes;
• carbohydrates are stored as fat;
• digestion of the product requires a large amount of enzymes, which causes problems with the gastrointestinal tract;
• caffeine leads to excitement of the nervous system, sleep disturbance, and heartburn.

This tasty and healthy product, if consumed excessively, can cause metabolic disorders. Substances in the composition of chocolate cause the appearance of oxalate stones in the kidneys, an increase in the amount of urine. The product has the following contraindications for use:

• violation of metabolic processes;
• allergy to components;
• high blood pressure problems;
• obesity;
• urolithiasis disease;
• gout;
• joint diseases;
• suffered a stroke, heart attack.

Chocolate never ceases to be a fantastic enjoyment option, not only for its lovers, but also for people who want more from their food.

For those who want to eat healthy and healthy all the time.

Of course, sweets are not healthy food, but it is dark chocolate on a diet that will help you feel healthy and it is it that sometimes helps you to relax and forget about problems.

In addition, gut bacteria are killed in raw chocolate as well as fermentation products. This chocolate contains anti-inflammatory compounds that are essential for your health.

But that is not all…

Is it possible to eat dark chocolate on a diet

So, I found a lot of evidence of how useful it is. And now let's take a look at all the useful properties of dark chocolate from a scientific point of view ...

1. What is the use of dark chocolate for the brain

Yes, many people say, and you probably know that eating 2-3 slices of chocolate makes the brain work better, right? Perhaps this is not a secret today ...

And there is scientific evidence for this. As the BBC writes:

The researchers who conducted the latest study asked 60 people, whose average age was 73, to drink two cups of cocoa a day. One group was given cocoa rich in flavonoids and the other was given cocoa low in flavonoids.

For the purity of the experiment, both groups were forbidden to consume chocolate.

Prior to this experiment, ultrasound studies have recorded a violation of blood circulation in the brain in 17 patients.

Regardless of the amount of flavonoids in cocoa, blood flow improved in 88% of patients. At the end of the experiment, the subjects improved their memory performance tests. Those who had normal blood flow at the start of the study had a further 37% improvement in results.

Studies using magnetic resonance imaging have shown that in 24 cases, people with impaired blood flow are also likely to have very little brain damage.

An interesting fact is provided by Newsru.com. Also, according to research by British scientists, chocolate stimulates the heart and brain more than kissing. Under the "high" from the use of chocolate, the heartbeat doubles. All the sites experienced prolonged and intense stimulation in the brain.

Super studies that already talk about the benefits of dark chocolate on the diet ...

2. Dark chocolate is good for the heart and improves cardiovascular function

As you already know, chocolate contains polyphenols.

But what is it and how do these polyphenols work?

First, they prevent the oxidation of fat-like substances that settle on the walls of blood vessels and create the foundation for atherosclerotic plaques.

The dose of polyphenols in chocolate was quite decent. Half a large chocolate bar weighing 75-100 grams contains about the same amount as in a glass of red wine.

Since polyphenols are a whole group of useful substances, scientists began to look closely at them in more detail. They tried to isolate the effect of each one.

British scientists have found that the antioxidants in chocolate (flavanoids or catechins) promote the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria, thereby improving digestion and strengthening the immune system.

For 4 weeks, a group of volunteers received these elements in the composition of a cocoa drink, either 494 mg of flavanoids per day, or 23 mg / day, depending on the type of chocolate (remember, there are quite a few of them in white and milk chocolate, so you should choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa).

With the consumption of chocolate, which is rich in flavanoids, the population of "good" gut bacteria increased and the population of "bad" ones decreased.

7. Is it possible to eat dark chocolate on a diet?

If I tell you that chocolate can help, you will say that this is a bluff!

Indeed, this tasty and adored by all women (and not only by them) product is constantly accused of all deadly sins: it contains a lot of calories, and extra weight from it appears, and allergies, and acne on the face.

But, as we have already seen, chocolate and chocolate are different.

All of the above, it must be admitted, is true when it comes to milk, white chocolate and ugly bars, which so ruined the reputation of this noblest and most delicious invention of cooking.

Therefore, the answer to the question "which chocolate is healthier than bitter or milk" seems to be solved ...

And what's more interesting, dark chocolate still helps ...

And it is possible! Since black bitter chocolate with a cocoa beans content of more than 60% contains active substances that normalize metabolism and hormones.

But the problem of excess weight in women is often hidden in this, as the Internet portal reports about the secrets and recipes of beauty. This is if we talk about how dark chocolate is useful for women ...

Chocolate also reduces appetite and food cravings. The "Shop of Elite Chocolate" says about this:

So in California, a survey was conducted among 1,000 residents aged 20 to 85 years. It turned out that those people who regularly consume chocolate have a lower body mass index than those who do not.

This may be due to the fact that dark chocolate reduces the production of "hunger hormones", reduces appetite and improves metabolism.

For some chocolate lovers, this is probably the best news ... 🙂

8. Chocolate increases energy, alertness

By the way, how much has already been discussed, but not said ... Do you know that there is a world chocolate day? Yes, and it is celebrated on July 11 ...

Carbohydrates and fats energize your body, while magnesium and potassium provide your muscles with full performance. All of these elements are present in dark bitter chocolate.

Therefore, chocolate will be an excellent source of energy during long trips and workouts, as well as increase your alertness.

9. Dark chocolate promotes healthy blood flow

You can also find a lot of information about this good news ...

Recently, in 2014, it was reported that a study was published in the Journal of the American Heart Association on the benefits of dark chocolate for people suffering from peripheral vascular disease.

These diseases are characterized by vasoconstriction of the extremities, which greatly complicates the flow of blood into them. When walking, such patients experience pain, cramps and get tired quickly. In Western countries, the disease affects more than 20% of the population over 70 years old.

The study involved 14 men and 6 women aged 60 to 78 years with peripheral arterial disease. Every morning, patients got up on the treadmill and walked along it at a low speed, while scientists measured the distance traveled, walking duration and other parameters.

After two hours, the subjects received a piece of bitter (cocoa content not less than 85%) or milk chocolate (cocoa content less than 35%) and got back on the treadmill.

It was found that in patients who ate dark chocolate, the ability to walk without assistance increased: the distance they covered was 11% longer, and the "walk" itself lasted 15% longer compared to the morning indicators. Patients who ate milk chocolate did not show any improvement.

Conclusion

The health benefits of raw chocolate are more numerous than what has already been discovered and discussed with you here.Many studies show that dark chocolate on diet can improve quality of life inpresent and future.

However, chocolate should be consumed in moderation. We all know that chocolate contains a lot of calories. And remember to choose the right chocolate.

That is, if we talked about the fact that dark chocolate is useful for men or women, and also helps in losing weight, then this does not mean that you can eat a lot of it. This is the first thing.

Still, remember to keep the minimum cocoa content in your products. There should be at least 70% of them. Better closer to 100?%….

I love chocolate, which is practically sugar free and contains 92% cocoa products.

What kind of chocolate do you like? And h if you could add to this list of health benefits of using chocolate, write in the comments below!

If you liked the article, please share it with others!

Chocolate never ceases to be a fantastic enjoyment option, not only for its lovers, but also for people who want more from their food. For those who want to eat healthy and healthy all the time.

Of course, sweets are not healthy food, but it is dark chocolate on a diet that will help you feel healthy and it is it that sometimes helps you to relax and forget about problems.

It is known from many studies that raw cocoa beans, and specifically dark chocolate made from raw cocoa powder, contain high levels of antioxidants, including epicatechin and catechin.

In addition, gut bacteria are killed in raw chocolate as well as fermentation products. This chocolate contains anti-inflammatory compounds that are essential for your health.

Is it possible to eat dark chocolate on a diet

So, I found a lot of evidence of how useful it is. And now let's take a look at all the useful properties of dark chocolate from a scientific point of view ...

1. What is the use of dark chocolate for the brain

Yes, many people say, and you probably know that eating 2-3 slices of chocolate makes the brain work better, right? Perhaps this is not a secret today ...

And there is scientific evidence for this:

The researchers who conducted the latest study asked 60 people, whose average age was 73, to drink two cups of cocoa a day. One group was given cocoa rich in flavonoids and the other was given cocoa low in flavonoids.

For the purity of the experiment, both groups were forbidden to consume chocolate.

Prior to this experiment, ultrasound studies have recorded a violation of blood circulation in the brain in 17 patients.

Regardless of the amount of flavonoids in cocoa, blood flow improved in 88% of patients. At the end of the experiment, the subjects improved their memory performance tests. Those who had normal blood flow at the start of the study had a further 37% improvement in results.

Studies using magnetic resonance imaging have shown that in 24 cases, people with impaired blood flow are also likely to have very little brain damage.

Also, according to research by British scientists, chocolate stimulates the heart and brain more than kissing. Under the "high" from the use of chocolate, the heartbeat doubles. All the sites experienced prolonged and intense stimulation in the brain.

Super studies that already talk about the benefits of dark chocolate on the diet ...

2. Dark chocolate is good for the heart and improves cardiovascular function

As you already know, chocolate contains polyphenols.

But what is it and how do these polyphenols work?

First, they prevent the oxidation of fat-like substances that settle on the walls of blood vessels and create the foundation for atherosclerotic plaques. The dose of polyphenols in chocolate was quite decent. Half a large chocolate bar weighing 75-100 grams contains about the same amount as in a glass of red wine.

Since polyphenols are a whole group of useful substances, scientists began to look closely at them in more detail. They tried to isolate the effect of each one.

Back in 1999, Dutch physicians at the National Institute for Health and the Environment found that chocolate contains four times more catechins (one of the polyphenols) than tea.

Prior to that, tea was considered the record holder for the content of catechins that protect us from cancer and from atherosclerosis. After this study, the chocolate tea sweet couple began to look very attractive in terms of healthy eating.

How do you like these facts? ...

3. Why is dark chocolate healthier than milk chocolate? It helps in the prevention of bowel cancer

This is just an incredible plus in favor of dark chocolate ...

Mehmet Oz, M.D., a cardiologist, found in his new study that consuming raw chocolate can help prevent colon cancer.

The same was published back in 2009 by the Internet edition Newsru.com, when it became known about the experiments of a group of scientists from the private dermatological clinic "European Dermatology London". While the tests were more about sun exposure, the results were amazing ...

The observations were conducted on 30 healthy adults, including 22 women. The average age of the subjects was 42 years.

For three months, half of the volunteers ate 20 grams of dark chocolate, high in flavonoids, every day. The rest of the subjects ate regular chocolate.

After that, the skin of the participants in the experiment was tested for exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The skin of those who ate chocolate high in flavonols was better protected from exposure to sunlight.

Note that during the trials, the researchers found that eating dark chocolate can improve blood flow, reduce the risk of blood clots, and even protect against bowel cancer.

It turns out that dark chocolate is just a pantry for our health ...

4. Dark chocolate lowers cholesterol

As we already know, chocolate, like green tea, contains a huge amount of antioxidants that help lower bad cholesterol.

So, a study conducted by scientists from San Diego State University and presented at Experimental Biology 2012 compared the readings in 31 people who were assigned to eat either white chocolate (0% cocoa) or dark chocolate (70% cocoa ).

The researchers found that those who ate 50 grams of dark chocolate per day for 15 days had significantly higher HDL-cholesterol (good) cholesterol levels and lower LDL-(bad) cholesterol levels. Quite noticeably, they also had significantly lower blood sugar levels!

Scientists also say: “ Consumers should be aware that most commercial chocolate is low in polyphenols and high in sugar and saturated fat. Adding dark unsweetened cocoa powder to your food is a good, risk-free way to reap the health benefits of chocolate.«.

5. Dark chocolate helps reduce PMS symptoms

Scientists believe that eating dark chocolate can help women relieve PMS symptoms. The women's portal Ivona writes about this perfectly. In women, monthly, before the onset of menstruation, the level of female sex hormones decreases: estrogen and progesterone.

These hormonal changes create a domino effect, so there is a temporary decrease in the level of serotonin - the hormone of good mood, as well as other enformins. As a result, women experience irritation, fatigue, and other common PMS symptoms that can last from three to seven days.

According to experts, there are ways to help relieve the symptoms of PMS. So, they are sure that berries, calcium, magnesium, vitamins E and B6 will help reduce PMS symptoms. In addition, dark chocolate will help to cope with irritation.

As you know, this product contains magnesium and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which have a positive effect on a person's mood. Besides, in dark chocolate very little sugar and no milk.

But scientists recommend excluding foods that contain sugar, salt and caffeine from your menu during PMS. Experts believe they can aggravate your condition by causing bloating, irritability, anxiety and depression that are associated with PMS. So, be careful about choosing the right chocolate for your diet.

In addition, experts note that moderate physical activity, for example, a half-hour walk, will help you to improve your mood and feel more energetic.

6. Bitter chocolate improves digestion

Did you know there are healthy bacteria that live in our gut?

So, it turns out that dark chocolate supplies a large number of these beneficial microbes that improve digestion. There is also a lot of research on this topic.

British scientists have found that the antioxidants in chocolate (flavanoids or catechins) promote the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria, thereby improving digestion and strengthening the immune system.

For 4 weeks, a group of volunteers received these elements in the composition of a cocoa drink, either 494 mg of flavanoids per day, or 23 mg / day, depending on the type of chocolate (remember, there are quite a few of them in white and milk chocolate, so you should choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa).

With the consumption of chocolate, which is rich in flavanoids, the population of "good" gut bacteria increased and the population of "bad" ones decreased.

This says that dark chocolate on a diet is really very useful and necessary. Let's talk more about this ...

7. Is it possible to eat dark chocolate on a diet?

By the way, how much has already been discussed, but not said ... Do you know that there is a world chocolate day? Yes, and it is celebrated on July 11 ...

Carbohydrates and fats energize your body, while magnesium and potassium provide your muscles with full performance. All of these elements are present in dark bitter chocolate.

Therefore, chocolate will be an excellent source of energy during long trips and training, as well as increase your alertness.

9. Dark chocolate promotes healthy blood flow

You can also find a lot of information about this good news ...

Recently, in 2014, it was reported that the Journal of the American Heart Association published a study on the benefits of dark chocolate for people suffering from peripheral vascular disease.

These diseases are characterized by vasoconstriction of the extremities, which greatly complicates the flow of blood into them. When walking, such patients experience pain, cramps and get tired quickly. In Western countries, the disease affects more than 20% of the population over 70 years old.

The study involved 14 men and 6 women aged 60 to 78 years with peripheral arterial disease. Every morning, patients got up on the treadmill and walked along it at a low speed, while scientists measured the distance traveled, walking duration and other parameters.

After two hours, the subjects received a piece of bitter (cocoa content not less than 85%) or milk chocolate (cocoa content less than 35%) and got back on the treadmill.

It was found that in patients who ate dark chocolate, the ability to walk without assistance increased: the distance they covered was 11% longer, and the "walk" itself lasted 15% longer compared to the morning indicators. Patients who ate milk chocolate did not show any improvement.

Conclusion

The health benefits of raw chocolate are more numerous than what has already been discovered and discussed with you here. Many studies show that dark chocolate on a diet can improve quality of life now and in the future.

However, chocolate should be consumed in moderation. We all know that chocolate contains a lot of calories. And remember to choose the right chocolate.

That is, if we talked about the fact that dark chocolate is useful for men or women, and also helps in losing weight, then this does not mean that you can eat a lot of it. This is the first thing. However, keep in mind the minimum amount of cocoa products. There should be at least 70% of them. Better closer to 100?%….

I love chocolate, which is practically sugar free and contains 92% cocoa products.

On the Internet, you can increasingly see recommendations that chocolate should never be stored in the refrigerator. There is an opinion that from this it can deteriorate and become covered with a white coating. Is this true and what to do in the summer, when there is a high probability that your favorite delicacy can melt from the high temperature? We decided to understand the intricacies of "chocolate science" and found answers to these questions.

What can happen to a bar of chocolate on a hot summer day if it is left in the car or on a sunny windowsill? After a while, it will melt and will look more like hot chocolate, popular in the winter season.

Once in such a situation, many people try to save their favorite treat and put it in the refrigerator, but then they are disappointed because it does not look as appetizing as it used to be. The shape of the chocolate changes, and white spots appear on its surface. Given this bitter experience, we might conclude that chilling has a negative effect on chocolate. In fact, this is not entirely true.

Chocolate Science: Factors Affecting Storage

Oxidation

Chocolate oxidizes on contact with air and light. Under their influence, the properties of the fat contained in the product change, which leads to a change in taste and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

White chocolate is prepared without the use of cocoa powder, which is why it does not have this protection and is very sensitive to air and light. To prevent oxidation, store white chocolate in an airtight and light-tight container.

Diffusion

Substances from the environment can penetrate through the smallest openings in the packaging and affect the chocolate. In addition, water and alcohol from the filling can also be released into the environment.

Because of this, chocolate began to be sold in sealed packages, although you can still find chocolate bars wrapped in aluminum foil or cardboard wrappers on store shelves.

Ostwald ripening

The same thing that happens with ice crystals, happens with small crystals of cocoa butter: they can grow in size over time. This effect is known as "Ostwald ripening".

Clusters of cocoa butter crystals can form as white spots on the surface of the chocolate. The process accelerates with temperature fluctuations. You may have observed this effect if you accidentally left chocolate on a cold windowsill overnight. When the food starts to heat up the next day due to the temperature, moisture is released. During this process, cocoa butter settles on the surface of the chocolate, forming an unappetizing white coating. However, rest assured that this layer has nothing to do with mold and does not affect the taste of the treat in any way.

Hygroscopicity

Chocolate contains 0.6% water and without proper packaging can quickly absorb moisture, initiating the process described above (in the worst case, it can become moldy). In this regard, it is recommended to use airtight packaging to protect the chocolate from microbial attack. Due to their low water content, their growth is much slower.

Mixing flavors

Fat-soluble volatiles found in cheese, fish and meat flavors can be quickly absorbed into chocolate. Because of this, the product may acquire a not very pleasant smell and taste.

White chocolate is especially susceptible to off-flavors and should therefore be stored in sealed containers that are free from residual odors from other foods.

Heating

Cocoa butter comes in various crystal forms. Types III and IV are eliminated at the production stage. The chocolate we buy contains only type V crystal forms, which melt at approximately 32 ° C, so the treat literally melts in your mouth!

At high temperatures (for example, when chocolate remains inside the machine on a hot day), the larger Type VI crystal forms begin to melt at around 37 ° C. The consequence of this is that the original taste of the chocolate spoils and it no longer melts in the mouth.

How to store chocolate properly?

Freezer storage

Tests carried out with chocolate placed in a freezer at -18 ° C have shown that the properties of the product are best preserved under these conditions. Therefore, the best way to preserve your holiday chocolate treats is by freezing them.

Refrigerated storage

Packaged chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator at any temperature and humidity level for several months without any problems. Its taste and smell will remain unchanged. If the package is opened, the chocolate must be transferred to an airtight container to avoid contact with air and to prevent the absorption of foreign odors.

Comparative tests between storing the chocolate at room temperature and storing it in the refrigerator showed that the difference in quality was clear. So don't believe the rumors: chocolate can be kept in the refrigerator. The main thing is to follow the rules.

Conclusion

• It is much better to store chocolate in the refrigerator than at room temperature (20 ° C).
• Chocolate can stay fresh for several years if stored in the freezer.
• Storing packaged chocolate in the freezer does not require a specific temperature or humidity level to be selected.

However, from my point of view, it is best not to store this delicious delicacy, but to eat it immediately after purchase. I think that many chocolate lovers will agree with the dictum of the Irish writer Oscar Wilde: "I can resist anything but temptation."

If you have questions or comments, please write to us. Use the comment form below or join the community discussion

Chocolate is made from dried, roasted and ground cocoa beans, which are then mixed with various ingredients such as sugar, milk, vanilla, soy lecithin, and the like. The cocoa content of the chocolate you buy (e.g. 85%) corresponds to the cocoa solids percentage.

Dark chocolate does not contain milk, while milk chocolate contains a lot of sugar, quite a lot of milk, and a small amount of real cocoa. White chocolate, on the other hand, contains cocoa butter, milk, and sugar, but is stripped of other non-fat cocoa solids and the benefits they provide.

Can you eat chocolate during keto?

In general, you can, however there are a few things to consider:

1. Always choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa content

The darker the chocolate, the better, as the higher the cocoa percentage, the less net carbs the chocolate will contain and the more benefits your body will receive. Choose at least 70%, or if you prefer, go for 85% or higher.

2. Always read the label

Expert opinion

Alena Kovaleva

Former "carbohydrate addict", happy mom and chief editor of KetoDieto.

Make sure there are no soy, artificial sweeteners or sugar in the chocolate. If you buy sweetened chocolate, make sure it is sweetened with stevia, erythritol, or any other keto-friendly .

3. Avoid milk or white chocolate

• Note: the amount of net carbohydrates per 100 g is indicated

4. Remember that even dark chocolate is still a high-calorie candy

This means that you should consume it in moderation. Most types of chocolate contain from 500 to 600 kcal per 100 g, sometimes even more. In addition, its carbohydrate content makes it perfectly acceptable for a small bite, but less ideal if you want to eat half a bar.

5. If you find it difficult to limit yourself, it is better to remove chocolate from the diet.

6. Chocolate contains caffeine

The darker the chocolate, the more it will contain - This is usually 17.5 to 70 mg caffeine per 100 g, which is not much compared to real coffee (which contains 65 to 150 mg caffeine per cup), but if you are particularly sensitive to it, eat chocolate early in the day ...

The health benefits of chocolate

Now let's look at the pros of chocolate.

Chocolate contains a lot of good fats - monounsaturated and saturated. But in fact, saturated fat hasn't been directly linked to heart disease, so there is no need to fear it. The type found in chocolate is stearic acid, which does not negatively affect LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.

Overall, the consumption of chocolate is even associated with improved cardiovascular health. This is mainly due to its high flavonoid content, making it an anti-inflammatory food that helps the body manage oxidative stress.

Do you like chocolate?

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Rich in flavanols, dark chocolate has another major benefit - it protects against harmful UV radiation.

Pretty amazing isn't it?

Plus, chocolate is high in fiber, which is great news for your digestion. Fiber content will vary from brand to brand, but in most cases it will be between 10 and 20 grams per 100 grams.

Also, chocolate contains large amounts of magnesium, iron, copper, potassium, selenium, etc.

Homemade Chocolate Bars Recipe

You can easily make chocolate keto bars at home using simple ingredients like:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 28 g cocoa (100%)
• 1 tbsp heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered erythritol (or monk fruit mixture)
• 1/4 tbsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 pinch sea salt

Preparation: just melt the butter, coconut oil and cocoa and mix well. Add heavy cream, sweetener and vanilla extract and stir again. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, then pour the chocolate mixture into the shape you want and sprinkle with sea salt on top. Place in the freezer and freeze for an hour.

Outcome

There is no doubt that dark chocolate (85% or higher) is a much better alternative to traditional high-carb desserts. If you want something sweet from time to time, there is nothing wrong with consuming it in small amounts. Just remember the key word: moderation.