Xocai makes solid dark chocolates, and varieties include plain nuggets, squares with omega-3 fatty acids, peanut butter cups, Xobiotics with probiotics and X Power Squares. Dark chocolate may be healthy for your heart, and Xocai chocolates have extra antioxidants in them. However, Xocai chocolate may lead to side effects, especially when you eat too much.
Weight Gain
Xocai chocolate is calorie-dense, and a potential side effect of eating it is unwanted weight gain. The calorie contents and serving sizes vary between products. The nuggets have 210 calories per 36 g serving, X Power Squares have 100 calories per 18 g serving, and Omega Squares have 190 calories in 33 g, or just over 1 oz. Candy is a top source of calories in the average American diet, according to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Higher Cholesterol
Omega Squares provide heart-healthy, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, but these and other Xocai chocolates are high in saturated fat, which raises your LDL cholesterol levels and may increase your risk of heart disease. A serving of Xocai chocolate provides up to 9 g saturated fat. Your diet should include no more than 7 percent to 10 percent of total calories from saturated fat, or 15 g to 22 g per day on a 2,000-calorie diet, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Risks from Oxalates
A side effect of eating Xocai chocolate is weaker bones and a higher risk bone fractures because of the oxalate content of dark chocolate. Xocai chocolate provides only 2 percent of the daily value for calcium, an essential nutrient for strong bones, and oxalates block your body from properly absorbing and using dietary calcium, according to the University of Michigan. Oxalates in your diet may also lead to kidney stones, and you should limit your intake to no more than 7 oz. per week,
Other Effects
Dark chocolate is a natural source of caffeine, a nervous system stimulant whose side effects may include jitters, difficulty sleeping and nervousness. Each serving of Xocai chocolate provides up to 4 g dietary fiber, and potential risks from increasing dietary fiber are diarrhea and nausea. Xocai chocolate contains blueberry and acai berry powders to increase the antioxidant capacity, but do not substitute high-fat, high-sugar chocolate for fruits and vegetables in your diet.
