Few things in life are better than waking up to Nutella and toast. But then comes the guilt. Nutella and other chocolate spreads don't enjoy the best reputation when it comes to health. Companies that sell these mostly highlight the natural ingredients: nuts, cocoa powder, emulsifiers, natural flavors, vegetable oil, cocoa butter. What they don't tell us is about sweeteners like steviol glycosides, maltitol, and erythritol. Luckily for chocolate lovers, many brands have been coming up with healthier versions of chocolate spreads sans the unhealthy ingredients. Some of them may actually have health benefits.
Health Benefits of Chocolate Spread
The main ingredient cocoa on its own is rich in antioxidants and micro nutrients like iron, calcium, thiamin, riboflavin, phosphorus and niacin. Chocolate spread may contain omega 3 ALA, which helps to maintain a healthy heart and normalizes cholesterol levels in your body.
Phosphorus is an essential mineral present in a chocolate spread that helps to maintain strong teeth and bones. It also helps in the healthy growth of children. Phosphorus helps in the proper functioning of cells in your body.
Key health benefits of chocolate spread
- Aids in digestion: Chocolate spread is loaded with fiber content. The fiber content may help to relieve constipation, improve digestion. It also helps to control cholesterol levels in your body.
- Boosts mood: Chocolate is known for its mood elevating properties, which fight depression and anxiety. It also helps to produce happy hormones.
- Packed with iron: Iron in chocolate spread helps to fight off anemia by producing RBC. It reduces fatigue and tiredness.
- May improve nerve health
- Fights against free radicals
- Boosts energy
- Helps in the production of red blood cells
- Strengthens bones
- Promotes healthy growth in children
- Improves mental health
100gm of chocolate spread has the following nutritional composition.
| NUTRITIONAL FACT | MEASURE%(DV) |
| Calories | 541 |
| Fat | 46% |
| Sodium | 1% |
| Potassium | 11% |
| Cholesterol | 0% |
| Fiber | 20% |
| Protein | 10% |
| Iron | 24% |
| Vitamin B6 | 55 |
| Magnesium | 16% |
| Calcium | 10% |
| Vitamin D | 0% |
| Carbohydrate | 20% |
| Vitamin C | 0% |
| Cobalamin | 5% |
How to eat chocolate spreads guilt free
Many of the commercially available chocolate spreads in the market are loaded with sugar and trans fats. Some of the benefits may be overshadowed by its negatives. Moderation is therefore the key.
Instead of spooning it right out the jar and into your mouth, pair it with fruit, roti or whole-grain toasts.
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