Are you a chocolate lover looking for a healthy snack option? Look no further than 4 squares (17 g) of 70% cocoa dark chocolate. This indulgent treat packs only 100 calories, making it a guilt-free choice for any time of the day.

But wait, it gets better - this chocolate is also a source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Plus, it's vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about this delicious treat, from its cocoa content to its fat content and everything in between.

Cocoa Content

As the name suggests, 70% cocoa dark chocolate contains a high percentage of cocoa solids. This means that it has a stronger, richer chocolate flavor than milk chocolate, which typically contains only around 30% cocoa solids. Cocoa also contains flavanols, which are plant compounds with antioxidant properties. The higher the cocoa content, the more flavanols the chocolate is likely to contain. So if you're looking for a chocolate that's both rich in flavor and packed with antioxidants, 70% cocoa dark chocolate is the way to go.

Calorie Count

At only 100 calories per 4 squares (17 g) serving, 70% cocoa dark chocolate is a relatively low-calorie snack option. However, it's important to keep in mind that calories can add up quickly if you're not careful. To make sure you're not overindulging, try measuring out your portions ahead of time or only keeping a small amount of chocolate on hand at once.

Serving Size

Speaking of serving sizes, it's important to note that 4 squares (17 g) is the recommended serving size for 70% cocoa dark chocolate. While it can be tempting to eat more, keep in mind that exceeding the recommended serving size will also increase the number of calories you're consuming.

Fat Content

While chocolate is often associated with being high in fat, 70% cocoa dark chocolate is actually relatively low in fat compared to other types of chocolate. In a 4 squares (17 g) serving, 70% cocoa dark chocolate contains only 6 g of fat, with 3.5 g of that being saturated fat. While it's important to watch your intake of saturated fat, a small amount in moderation is unlikely to cause harm.

Source of Antioxidants

As mentioned earlier, 70% cocoa dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants thanks to its high cocoa content. Antioxidants are important for protecting your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging and disease. So not only does eating 70% cocoa dark chocolate satisfy your sweet tooth, it may also have some health benefits to boot.

Satisfying Sweet Tooth

Let's face it, sometimes you just need something sweet to get you through the day. 70% cocoa dark chocolate is a great choice for satisfying those cravings without derailing your healthy eating plan. Its rich, intense flavor means that you don't need to eat as much to feel satisfied, and the antioxidants it contains may also help keep you feeling your best.

Vegan Friendly

If you follow a vegan lifestyle, finding suitable snack options can be a challenge. Fortunately, 70% cocoa dark chocolate is often vegan-friendly, as it typically contains no animal products. Just be sure to double-check the ingredient list to make sure there are no milk solids or other animal-based ingredients hiding in there.

Gluten-Free

For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding gluten-free snacks can also be a struggle. The good news? 70% cocoa dark chocolate is typically gluten-free, as it doesn't contain any gluten-containing grains like wheat or barley. As always, be sure to check the label to make sure that it's certified gluten-free if you have any concerns.

Healthy Snack Option

Overall, 70% cocoa dark chocolate is a great option for a healthier snack. Its low calorie and fat content, along with its antioxidant properties, make it a smart choice for anyone looking for a sweet treat that won't wreck their diet. As with any food, though, moderation is key. Stick to the recommended serving size of 4 squares (17 g) to avoid overindulging.

Moderation is Key

It's worth reiterating that moderation is key when it comes to 70% cocoa dark chocolate (or any food, really). While it may be a healthier snack option than other types of chocolate, it still contains calories and fat that can add up quickly if you're not careful. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet, alongside plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.