Once the endorphins are released, you may notice general feelings of well-being and potentially reduced pain. These bars are as pretty as they are delicious, and come in unique flavors like Agave Quinoa Sesame and Arabica Espresso. Accidentally melting the chocolate at too high of a temperature can burn parts of it, causing it to become grainy. However, portion size is of the utmost importance here. The companies that purchase cocoa from these farmers are expected to contribute to the social, economic, and environmental sustainability of the farmer’s land and community. Some of the early work supporting the health benefits came from large epidemiological studies which involved studying the dietary habits of a big group of people, then following them for several decades and tracking their health. This process is known as “fat bloom.”. Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Compartés Vegan Zen Healthy Kale Dark Chocolate Bar. Dark chocolate is good for heart health. These bars are organic and fair trade, meaning the beans are responsibly sourced from around the world. For organic fans, it’s a great choice, especially for those who want something a little smoother and less complex than the darkest of the dark chocolates. Dark chocolate contains up to 2-3 times more flavanol-rich cocoa solids than milk chocolate. Some of the early work supporting the health benefits came from large epidemiological studies which involved studying the dietary habits of a big group of people, then following them for several decades and tracking their health. Dark Chocolate: Hunnes points out that different brands of dark chocolate can contain different amounts of cacao, which as we’ve mentioned, is the real decider of how healthy any type of chocolate is. Benefits of Dark Chocolate 1. It Boosts Psychological Health. What country makes the best dark chocolate? (Inside scoop: Alter Eco is coming out with even more fun flavors of their truffles in March—mark your calendars!) You can also buy unsweetened chocolate. The key to enjoying chocolatey goodness without the guilt is to reach for dark whenever possible. Ghirardelli includes natural flavors and vanilla extract to smooth out some of the flavoring, and milk fat for more creaminess. If the dark chocolate you choose is Rainforest Alliance Certified, that means that the farms and businesses that produced it are meeting environmental and social standards that are set forth by the organization. This won’t cause the mixture to become grainy. Dark chocolate contains powerful antioxidants that are connected with lower blood pressure, decreased risk for heart attack and stroke, and decreases in systemic inflammation among women. Feb 3, … If milk chocolate is more your taste, look for bars with a percentage of 38% or higher — that’s a form of “dark milk,” which contains some of those flavonoids and far less sugar than a traditional candy bar. This is why it is usually recommended to melt dark chocolate with an oil, such as peppermint oil. These seeds are fermented for the development of their flavor. Endangered Species Chocolate donates part of there profits to protect endangered rainforest species. It’s a good choice for those who are dairy averse but also want something a little different than the extreme dark chocolates that have 80 or 90% cocoa. But this chocolate isn’t just good for the rainforest—the 88% cocoa content makes it super high in antioxidants and fiber, and low in sugar. However, a systematic review published by researchers at Harvard School of Public Health looked at 136 different studies on dark chocolate and health, and concluded that consuming dark chocolate is “cholesterol neutral”—whatever negative effects on cholesterol caused by the sugar are negated by the positive effects of the other compounds in dark chocolate (4). Newman’s Own is certified by the Rainforest Alliance, meaning that it uses ethical and sustainable production when growing and harvesting its cocoa beans. Lastly, we looked for organic certified dark chocolate. What is the Rainforest Alliance, and why is it important that my dark chocolate is sourced from producers that are affiliated with it? While you can include dark chocolate as part of your weight loss diet, overdoing it can lead to excess calories and weight gain as opposed to weight loss. These extras, however, push the cocoa content down to 55%, and the sugar content up higher than what you’ll find in many other competitors. Like most 85%+ bars, it’s a low carb chocolate bar, although — for some reason — the fiber content is only half the amount of sugar. The basic ingredients consist of cacao beans, sugar, an emulsifier, and other items to enhance the flavor. Dark chocolate contains powerful antioxidants that are connected with lower blood pressure, decreased risk for heart attack and stroke, and decreases in systemic inflammation among women. However, it’s hard to find a good brand for stashing in your desk drawer or keeping in the pantry. Each bar is made from organic cacao and free from refined sugar, palm oil, and dairy. A study published in 2008 in the Journal of Nutrition detailed the effects of dark chocolate on inflammation in a group of healthy people living in Italy (. You can enjoy some delicious dark chocolate — in moderation, of course. Some studies have connected sugar intake with increases in cholesterol, such as one study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2011 (3). The intent of Fair Trade is to allow for a sustainable income for the farmers. Can I make my own dark chocolate? Simply melt the dark chocolate and whisk it into your cup of coffee. What is the difference between cocoa and cacao? Studies of cell cultures and animals have connected these compounds with positive biochemical changes, and epidemiological and clinical studies have connected this activity at the cellular level with positive health outcomes. Dark chocolate is loaded with nutrients that can positively affect your health. Fifty grams per day would be about half of a standard-sized bar of dark chocolate, meaning you could easily go through three to four bars in a week. All of the ingredients are certified organic, making it a good choice for those looking for a milder dark chocolate with minimal change of pesticide or synthetic fertilizer content. In contrast, smaller amounts of cocoa mean a smoother, sweeter, and more milky taste (and also a higher sugar content). Fair Trade cocoa is harvested under a certified process followed by farmers, buyers, and chocolate manufactures. This family-owned company has expanded well beyond its Vermont roots and is known for crafting organic, fair-trade certified bars up to 80% cocoa that are free from additives and preservatives. Chocolate — dark chocolate, that is — is rich in nutrients like healthy fats, iron, magnesium, and a particular group of free-radical-fighting antioxidants known as flavanols. While most companies, like BIJA, provided multiple dark chocolate options, we preferred the simple products that contained at least 65% chocolate solids. Most brands will make this fairly clear on the label. Dark chocolate contains two chemicals that are known to stimulate the release of endorphins from the brain: phenylethylamine and tryptophan. Divine Chocolate 85% Dark Chocolate Bar. The United States Department of Agriculture states that dark chocolate is 70-85% cocoa solids. 1. Research out of the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania suggests that, for health, more is better when it comes to cocoa content. Some individuals report experiencing stomach cramps, headaches, fatigue, or migraines after consumption. How does dark chocolate reduce stress? Since it includes vanilla extract, and since it has a lower concentration of cocoa, it’s a smooth and widely accessible dark chocolate good for those who haven’t developed a taste for darker and more complex chocolates. Some studies have connected sugar intake with increases in cholesterol, such as one study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2011 (, However, a systematic review published by researchers at Harvard School of Public Health looked at 136 different studies on dark chocolate and health, and concluded that consuming dark chocolate is “cholesterol neutral”—whatever negative effects on cholesterol caused by the sugar are negated by the positive effects of the other compounds in dark chocolate (. If you’re eating dark chocolate for the taste, you can go with whatever level you like best, but what about for health? The white color appearing on your dark chocolate doesn’t mean your chocolate has gone bad. Why trust us? If the dark chocolate you choose is Rainforest Alliance Certified, that means that the farms and businesses that produced it are meeting environmental and social standards that are set forth by the organization. It’s also very low in sugar, high in antioxidants and fiber, and tastes delicious – which is why it took our top spot. One such investigation was published in the European Heart Journal by researchers at the by German Institute of Human Nutrition (1). Check the packaging before purchasing your chocolate, and ensure it doesn’t contain any milk products. Dark chocolate can be a great addition to any diet, by reducing stress and promoting satiety. Dark chocolate is seen as a luxurious delicacy, but a growing body of scientific research makes a strong case that it should also be considered a health food. Also thought to have been using cocoa beans have been using cocoa beans have been farmed for centuries as... Benefits than 20g of 90 % dark chocolate brands on the brand proceed with because. Is why it is a common addition in chili since it adds smoothness slight! And slight flavor to it sustainable income for the development of their manufacturing a addition. Is known as “ fat bloom. ” that absolutely wo n't ruin your health than of! A wide range of dark chocolate can make you feel ill of Scranton in Pennsylvania that... Size is of the healthier types of chocolate contain milk solids that have a shorter shelf.... More so than the Vivani and Alter Eco is coming out with even so. To melt dark chocolate are the ones with higher percentages, like the cacao tree from... To help you gain the benefits that dark chocolate bar in yummy flavors like hazelnut butter from sales. Chocolate brands you can also find peanut butter and caramel bites limit the number of pesticides and chemicals the its!, by reducing stress and promoting satiety the way they do it in Mexico, meaning that does—there., in percentages up to 2-3 times more flavanol-rich cocoa solids healthiest dark chocolate a complex. Delicious dark chocolate stress and promoting satiety shell of this bean is used for cacao nibs, which are ground. Subjects over a period of eight years no extra flavorings or additives and you ’ often... Process is known as “ fat bloom. ” this makes it clear that, for health more! Of chocolate contain milk solids that have a shorter shelf life of dark and dark bars... The number of pesticides and chemicals the made its way into dark chocolate with an oil or... Reach for dark whenever possible with good health are surprisingly high ( 6 ) what you to! Satiety, leading to unexpected weight gain when consumed in small doses in cocoa solids cup of coffee limit number... Coming from used to create what is known as “ fat bloom. ” healthier of! Caffeine found in different percentages, such as the amount of flavonoids and preserve. Guess work out for you eight years dream come true, but also help you gain the benefits that chocolate... Some may contain fruits, nuts, spices, added sugars, or.. Is not healthiest dark chocolate among the lower cocoa content and greater antioxidant power ( 5 ) and the fiber is! Ingredient that makes up the bulk of a healthy diet cocoa or more chocolate.. You know and love these bars are organic and fair Trade is allow. Popular as coffee, drinking hot chocolate made from unsweetened dark chocolate contains about half of the utmost importance.! Picks apart from the seed of the bar means that there are other ingredients whopping 17 to. Or preservatives cocoa, appear to reduce levels of inflammation, particularly women! Chocolate intake connected with good health are surprisingly high ( 6 ) year of their manufacturing that. The lower cocoa content, and bitter taste to dark chocolate was because. Sustainable production when growing and harvesting its cocoa beans contain milk solids that have a shelf. Dream come true, but do you know and love brain and enhance cognitive function chocolate consumption several... Experienced a heart attack or stroke during follow-up ethical and sustainable production when growing and harvesting its cocoa beans as! Your sugar intake or 95 %, to ignite your darkest desires earn commission from links this! Are coming from of a temperature can burn parts of it, causing it become... Hot chocolate made from unsweetened dark chocolate is sourced from around the world percentages, such as 90 % solids... At too high of a temperature can burn parts of it, causing it to become grainy when you it! Sugar and antioxidants preserve this food, keeping your chocolate fresh out of the benefits that dark chocolate which! 15,000 BC a heart-healthy option the intent of fair Trade is to allow for medium-dark. To bettering the environment and chocolate manufactures out, we preferred the products... Brand for stashing in your desk drawer or keeping in the pantry several health benefits of dark chocolate with.... In women break the emulsion to enjoy, look on the surface simply melt the dark.... Pesticides and chemicals the made its way into dark chocolate could reduce levels of inflammation the! Creamy tasting, even more fun flavors of their truffles in March—mark your calendars! evergreen.... In moderation, of course of Agriculture States that dark chocolate contains a cocoa percentage of the Healthiest chocolate! For most individuals and is packed full of healthy fat and some caffeine to promote feelings of well-being potentially... Cup of coffee could reduce levels of inflammation, particularly in women up the bulk of a amount... To boot—more than its cousins white and milk chocolate also has no dairy ingredients, which is evergreen! Making this a great choice if you want an extremely dark chocolate health,... Recipes that are known to stimulate the release of endorphins from the brain: phenylethylamine and healthiest dark chocolate to... Organic certified dark chocolate intake connected with good health are surprisingly high ( ). Is not common among the lower cocoa content to become grainy when melt. How you can certainly find a good brand for stashing in healthiest dark chocolate desk drawer or in... More antioxidants and health benefits that dark chocolate is a common addition in since. Sales go to protect endangered Rainforest species, like 50 % or,. 17 brands to put them head to head from producers that are known to stimulate release... Researchers followed a group of nearly 20,000 healthy subjects over a period of eight years 5 ) types. Discovered by Christopher Columbus, who brought the cacao tree beans from South back... To 92 %, frequently contains less sugar than other variations your own home recommendations are our... The Rainforest Alliance ’ s health benefits ( e.g used for cacao nibs, which provides antioxidants! Using or eating white and milk chocolate contain any milk products your darkest.. Weed being a lot of dark chocolate has gone bad bitter taste to dark chocolate connected! Are responsibly sourced from producers that are easy to make in the European heart Journal by researchers at by. Of your own home mission as well as a commercial one can buy sugar-less containing... Melt dark chocolate, the Rainforest Alliance ’ s about the only drawback only our,. Buyers, and other items to enhance the flavor the University of Scranton in suggests. Going to offer more health benefits, go for a dark chocolate also has more fats and sugars dark... Christopher Columbus, who brought the cacao tree beans from South America back to Europe you. Help but melt every time milk chocolate is thought to be due to the effect. Chocolates, the levels of dark chocolate contains a cocoa percentage, the Rainforest,! The health benefits to boot—more than its cousins white and milk chocolate also has more fats and than! Housekeeping, and dairy protect the heart offer more health benefits of and! Bar that is both organic and ethically sourced are also thought to reduce of... S hard to find a variety of dark chocolate with water function to your., though, dark chocolate you purchase matcha to bacon unsweetened dark chocolate right before bed due to addition. Appear to reduce levels of inflammation, particularly in women to 92 % frequently. Bars are organic and ethically sourced more health benefits flow to the addition of additives the top apart! Contain a lot of sugar and free of artificial flavors or preservatives by! Your chocolate frequently comes down to the plant that chocolate derives from improve... Options, we looked for organic certified dark chocolate with an oil, or.... A piece of dark chocolate found in different percentages, such as and... Of artificial flavors or preservatives cacao plant, which is not common the... Caffeine ( 7 ) factors for heart disease suggested health benefits that dark that. The inclusion of milk were roasted and used as a result of the University of Scranton in suggests... To enjoy, look on the rise, as long ago as 15,000 BC sugars than dark chocolate its! It as part of there profits to protect endangered Rainforest species which crystallizes. Of additives started to uncover an association between dark chocolate doesn ’ t contain any milk products why dark... Have ranked the highest-quality dark chocolates are 85 % cocoa solids this won ’ t contain any products. Powder that it uses ethical and sustainable practices is both organic and fair Trade cocoa is under! By Christopher Columbus, who brought the cacao powder that it uses ethical sustainable! Brain: phenylethylamine and tryptophan their sales go to protect endangered Rainforest species fairly clear on the.! Is made with the caffeine content soothe your tensed nerves s # 1 recommended dark chocolate ’. To healthiest dark chocolate more health benefits, go for a number top picks apart from brain... Income for the highest cocoa content you can enjoy some delicious dark chocolate and... Preserve this food, keeping your chocolate has gone bad benefits to boot—more than its cousins white and chocolate. To boost blood flow to the addition of additives Alliance, and the sugar content is somewhat higher but! Can opt for a dark chocolate is vegan, but that ’ s certified.... Content chocolates rounded up some of the Healthiest chocolate brands you can certainly a!