Indulging in chocolate can be a guilty pleasure, but it doesn't have to be a complete nutritional downfall. In fact, 3 pieces (30 g) of Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate contain 160 calories, making them a relatively low-calorie option when it comes to satisfying a sweet tooth.

But that's not all - hazelnuts are rich in nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats while dark chocolate is known for its benefits for heart health. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate and why it's a great option for people following a gluten-free diet. We'll also provide some pairing suggestions to take your chocolate indulgence to the next level.

So, let's delve into the delicious world of Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate!

Calories in 3 pieces of Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate

As mentioned earlier, 3 pieces (30 g) of Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate contain 160 calories. To put it in perspective, that's equivalent to the calorie content of a medium-sized apple. However, while apples don't offer the same decadent indulgence as chocolate, they do provide more fiber, which is essential for digestion and weight management. Overall, while chocolate can make a delicious treat, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overindulgence and excessive calorie intake.

Contribution of fat, protein, and carbohydrates in the chocolate

In addition to calories, 3 pieces of Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate provide 12 grams of fat, 2 grams of protein, and 13 grams of carbohydrates. While many people see fat and carbs as 'bad' nutrients, they are actually essential for the optimal functioning of our bodies. Fat, for example, is vital for hormone production and nerve function, while carbohydrates provide energy to our cells. However, consuming too much of any nutrient can lead to weight gain and other health issues, so moderation is key when it comes to indulging in chocolate or any other food.

Roasted hazelnut and dark chocolate - the perfect combination

One of the reasons Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate is so special is its unique and delicious flavor and texture combination. The roasted hazelnuts provide a crunchy and slightly sweet contrast to the smooth and rich dark chocolate, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, hazelnuts are a great source of nutrients, like vitamin E and magnesium, making them an excellent addition to any diet. So when you're enjoying your chocolate indulgence, don't forget to appreciate the benefits of the hazelnuts too!

Moderation is key when it comes to indulging in chocolate

While Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate can be a part of a healthy and balanced diet, too much of it can be detrimental to your health. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar, fat, and calories can lead to weight gain, heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. Therefore, it's important to enjoy chocolate in moderation and incorporate it into a well-rounded diet that includes nutrient-dense whole foods, like fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Other nutrients in the chocolate like sugar and fiber

Apart from fat, protein, and carbohydrates, Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate also contains 12 grams of sugar and 2 grams of fiber. While sugar is often thought of as a 'bad' nutrient, our bodies need it for energy. However, consuming too much added sugar in processed foods like candy and soda can lead to health issues. On the other hand, fiber is essential for gut health and digestion, and most Americans don't get enough of it in their diets. While chocolate isn't the most significant source of fiber, every little bit counts!

Suitable for people following a gluten-free diet

Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate is gluten-free, making it a safe option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. This means that the chocolate is made without any wheat, barley, or rye, which are common sources of gluten. So if you follow a gluten-free diet, you can enjoy this chocolate without any worries!

Importance of reading the serving size and calorie count

When indulging in chocolate, it's easy to lose track of portion sizes and calorie content, which can lead to overindulgence and weight gain. That's why it's important to read the label and understand the serving size and calorie count of the chocolate. Remember, even low-calorie foods can add up if you consume too much, so take the time to understand what you're putting into your body.

Hazelnuts - a rich source of nutrients

As mentioned earlier, roasted hazelnuts are a key ingredient in Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate, and they are also a great source of nutrients on their own. Hazelnuts contain healthy fats, like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are also rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and essential amino acids, making them an excellent addition to any diet. So even when you're not indulging in chocolate, you can still enjoy the benefits of this nutritious nut!

Benefits of dark chocolate for heart health

While many people think of chocolate as a 'junk' food, dark chocolate, in particular, contains flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that can protect the heart and reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have also shown that consuming dark chocolate can improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce inflammation, which are all beneficial for heart health. So when you're enjoying your Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate, remember that you're also doing your heart a favor!

Pairing suggestions for Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate

Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with other foods to elevate its flavor and texture. One great pairing is with red wine, as the tannins in the wine can balance out the sweetness of the chocolate and enhance its nutty flavors. Other great pairing options include espresso, fresh berries, and nuts. So next time you're indulging in Excellence Roasted Hazelnut Dark Chocolate, consider trying out one of these pairing suggestions to take your taste buds on a journey!