Dark or milk chocolate: Which one is healthier?
A nutritionist tells what chocolate is healthier (photo: Freepik)
Dark and milk chocolate are two of the most popular sweets. Many believe that dark chocolate is healthier due to its lower sugar content. But is this true?
What’s known about dark chocolate
According to Real Simple, dietitian Wan Na Chun explains that all chocolate contains cocoa, which is rich in nutrients.
Cocoa includes beneficial compounds like antioxidants called flavonoids and polyphenols, which may help prevent oxidative damage to cells. It also provides essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and phosphorus, which support various bodily functions.
Raw cocoa has a very bitter taste, so cocoa beans are fermented, dried, and roasted to produce a processed form of cocoa used in chocolate making. The resulting cocoa beans are then turned into cocoa powder.
Dark chocolate typically contains 50-90% cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and sugar. It usually does not contain dairy, making it less creamy compared to milk chocolate.
Nutritional values per 100g of dark chocolate (70-85% cocoa):
- Calories – 598
- Protein – 8g
- Fat – 43g
- Carbohydrates – 46g
- Fiber – 11g
- Sugar – 24g
Health benefits of milk chocolate
Milk chocolate is made from a mixture of cocoa butter, cocoa solids, sugar, milk powder, and other ingredients.
Despite the addition of milk powder, its ingredients are quite similar to those of dark chocolate. However, milk chocolate contains less cocoa solids and more sugar.
While dark chocolate has 50-90% cocoa, milk chocolate typically contains only about 10%, resulting in a sweeter taste and a smoother, creamier texture.
Due to its lower cocoa concentration, milk chocolate has fewer antioxidants. It also contains more added sugar than dark chocolate.
Nutritional values per 100g of milk chocolate:
- Calories – 535
- Protein – 8g
- Fat – 30g
- Carbohydrates – 59g
- Fiber – 3g
- Sugar – 52g
Which chocolate is healthier?
Dark chocolate is generally considered healthier due to its higher cocoa content and lower sugar levels. It also contains more nutrients such as fiber and minerals.
However, it’s important to consume dark chocolate moderately. A well-balanced diet is essential to obtain a full range of nutrients and health benefits.
While dark chocolate may offer additional health advantages, some people may prefer milk chocolate for its sweeter taste and creamier texture. Both types can be part of a balanced diet.
