Do you love indulging in chocolates but also keep an eye on your calorie intake? Then 1/3 bar (33 g) Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate should be your next obsession. With only 190 calories per serving, you can have your chocolate fix without any guilt.
Not only is it lower in calories, but it also has many nutritional benefits. Let's dive into the nutritional information of this delicious dark chocolate.
In this article, we'll explore the calorie content, fat, carbohydrate, protein, vitamins/minerals, fiber content, percentage of daily value, benefits of eating, risks of eating too much, and alternatives to Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate.
As previously mentioned, 1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate has 190 calories. This makes it a great option if you're watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy a sweet treat. Moreover, dark chocolate is known to boost metabolism, which may help burn more fat and calories in the body. So, eating 1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate may actually be beneficial for weight loss. However, it's important to remember that moderation is key. Consuming too many calories, even from healthy sources, can lead to weight gain.
1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate contains 13g of fat, of which 8g is the heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats have been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease, inflammation, and oxidative stress. However, it's important to be mindful of your total fat intake for the day. Too much fat can lead to weight gain and other health problems like high cholesterol and heart disease. So, enjoy Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate in moderation.
1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate contains 13g of carbohydrates, of which 4g is fiber and 7g is sugar. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and aids in digestion, while too much sugar can cause spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. If you're watching your carbohydrate intake, Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate is a great option as it contains more fiber and less sugar compared to other types of chocolate.
1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate contains 2g of protein. While this may not seem like a lot, it's important to know that every little bit adds up. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal or snack. So, including sources of protein, like dark chocolate, in your diet is important.
Vitamins and Minerals in 1/3 bar (33g) of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate
1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate contains 10% of the daily value of iron and magnesium, 8% of the daily value of copper, and 6% of the daily value of zinc. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body, while magnesium helps regulate muscle and nerve function. Copper and zinc are important for immune function and wound healing. So, not only does Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate taste good, but it's also packed with important vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly.
1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate contains 4g of fiber. As mentioned earlier, fiber is essential for regulating blood sugar levels and aiding in digestion. Moreover, including sources of fiber in your diet has been linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. So, not only is Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate delicious, but it's also a great way to add more fiber to your diet.
The percentage of daily value (%DV) tells you how much of a specific nutrient is in one serving of food, compared to how much you need for the day. Here are the %DV values for 1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate: - 10% DV iron - 8% DV copper, 6% DV zinc, and 5% DV phosphorus
Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate has many health benefits that make it a great addition to your diet. Here are some of the benefits: - May lower blood pressure: The flavanols in dark chocolate have been shown to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. - May improve brain function: The caffeine and theobromine in dark chocolate may improve brain function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
While Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate has many health benefits, it's important to remember that too much of a good thing can be harmful. Here are some of the risks of eating too much dark chocolate: - Can cause caffeine sensitivity: Dark chocolate contains caffeine, which can cause heart palpitations, anxiety, and insomnia in sensitive individuals. - Can cause gastrointestinal problems: Eating too much dark chocolate can cause stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
If you're not a fan of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate, or if you're looking for healthier alternatives, here are some options: - Dark chocolate with higher cocoa content: The higher the cocoa content, the lower the sugar and milk content in chocolate. Look for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. - Cacao nibs: Cacao nibs are roasted cacao beans that have been separated from their husks and broken into small pieces. They're high in fiber and antioxidants and can be used as a topping for yogurt, smoothie bowls, and oatmeal.
Moderation is key. Consuming too many calories, even from healthy sources, can lead to weight gain.
5 FAQ About Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate
1. What is Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate?
Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate is a type of chocolate that contains a high percentage of cocoa solids and a low percentage of sugar. It is known for its rich, intense flavor and is often used in baking, cooking, and for making chocolate desserts.
2. How many calories in 1/3 bar of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate?
1/3 bar (33 g) of Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate contains 190 calories. However, it is important to note that the nutritional content may vary depending on the brand and type of chocolate.
3. Is Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate Healthy?
While Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate does contain a high percentage of cocoa solids, which are rich in antioxidants, it is important to consume it in moderation. Eating too much chocolate, even the dark variety, can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
4. How is Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate Different from Other Types of Chocolate?
Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa solids and a lower percentage of sugar compared to other types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate. It has a stronger and more bitter taste, which makes it ideal for baking and cooking.
5. What are Some Recipes that Use Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate?
Extra Dark Bittersweet Chocolate can be used in a variety of recipes, such as chocolate mousse, flourless chocolate cake, and chocolate truffles. It is also a great addition to hot cocoa and coffee drinks for an extra boost of flavor.