Recent research has revealed that dark chocolate has a number of health benefits. Dark chocolate is abundant in flavonoids, which have been found to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Dark chocolate cocoa mixes are a good way to enjoy rich, dark chocolate while obtaining the benefits of flavonoids; however, the nutritional content varies depending on the brand of cocoa mix.
Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Harvard University conducted a review of 24 previous studies on the benefits of dark chocolate. The review was announced at the 2011 American Heart Association's science session in Atlanta. Researchers analyzed 24 chocolate studies and found that dark chocolate lowered blood pressure in all participants. The drop was most significant in participants who were already diagnosed with hypertension. The study also concluded that dark chocolate increased insulin sensitivity and lowered cholesterol. Dark chocolate should contain 50 to 70 percent cocoa to obtain the most benefits, according to the study.
Calories and Fat
Most hot chocolate mixes are sold in individual envelopes, which represents a serving size. The calories and fat grams in dark chocolate cocoa mixes vary depending on the brand. Some brands have more added sugar, which increases the calorie content. Swiss Miss dark cocoa mix has approximately 150 calories per packet. Nestle dark chocolate contains 80 calories. Most dark chocolate cocoa mixes are relatively low in fat, often under 5 g per serving, and most brands contain no saturated fat.
Carbohydrates and Sodium
Dark chocolate cocoa mix generally contains approximately 20 g of carbohydrates per serving; however, this can fluctuate based on the brand. Some brands may be sweeter and therefore, the carbohydrate content will be higher. Other brands, like Hershey’s unsweetened special dark cocoa mix, have no added sugar and far less carbohydrates. Some dark chocolate cocoa mixes may contain a small amount of sodium, or salt. Many brands do not contain any sodium, however, so be sure to check the nutrition label on your cocoa mix.
Other Nutrients
Most dark chocolate cocoa mixes do not have many other nutrients. The flavonoids found in dark chocolate provide the most health benefits. The higher the cocoa content in your dark chocolate cocoa mix, the higher the flavonoid content and the greater the potential health benefits. Some dark chocolate cocoa mixes contain calcium, which is an important mineral for your bone health. Potassium, an essential electrolyte that is used in many body functions, is also present in some dark chocolate mixes.
References
- AARP; Harvard Study: Dark Chocolate Can Help Lower Your Blood Pressure; Candy Sagon; March 2011
- Con Agra Foods: Swiss Miss
- Hershey's Products: Hershey's Cocoa Special Dark
- Livestrong Daily Plate: Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix (Nestle)
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Potassium; Steven D. Ehrlich; May 2009
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