We debunk all the myths about chocolate

Chocolate is one of the most popular foods in the world (many people love it!), but it’s also one of the most myth-ridden. In this blog post, we’ll debunk the biggest misconceptions about chocolate and explore the truths behind it. If you love chocolate and want to learn more about how to enjoy it in a balanced way, keep reading.

Can I include chocolate in my daily diet?
If there is any associated pathology, it is recommended to consult a doctor or nutritionist. However, if you are a healthy person and do not have any pathology, there is no problem in eating in moderation. In fact, there is no recommended dose. However, it is said that between 10 and 25g per day. This amount depends on several factors: physical activity, age, etc. Those who have a more sedentary lifestyle should pay more attention to the quantities.

Reference: APN. 5 questions about chocolate. 2015.

Is there an ideal time of day to eat chocolate?
If we are talking about a chocolate with a lot of sugar, which is not the case with Chocolate Zesty, I recommend eating it at the end of the main meals because of the spikes in blood sugar levels caused by sugar. In the case of Zesty, since it has no added sugar and is high in fiber (10g of fiber per 100g), it does not create this spike. Therefore, it can be eaten at any time of the day. For those who really like sweets, I recommend eating it at the end of meals to control the amount. But generally speaking, there is no ideal time.

Can chocolate be eaten by women who are breastfeeding? Does it cause colic in the baby?
There are no scientific studies that prove that eating chocolate can cause colic in babies. This is one of the most deeply-rooted myths and many expectant mothers think that they cannot eat chocolate. Of course, it is possible to adjust the quantities, but there is no need to give up chocolate.

Reference: Jeong, G., Park, SW, Lee, YK, Ko, SY, & Shin, SM (2017). Maternal food restrictions during breastfeeding. Korean Journal of Pediatrics, 60(3), 70-76.

Does chocolate cause acne?
There are no studies that link chocolate consumption to acne. The myth is based on the belief that chocolate, because it has a high fat content, will also increase the oiliness of the skin and, as a consequence, cause acne. If this were a direct consequence, we would not be able to eat foods like avocado or olive oil. It is not possible to make a direct analogy.

Reference: Bhate K, Williams HC. Epidemiology of acne vulgaris. Br J Dermatol. 2013 Mar;168(3):474-85.

What is inulin?
Inulin is a functional ingredient. Inulin is a soluble fiber that works as a probiotic that helps maintain intestinal flora. In addition, foods rich in fiber help maintain satiety.

Why does chocolate make you feel good?
Chocolate contains an amino acid, tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin – the happiness hormone. This is why there is an association between eating chocolate and a feeling of well-being and reduced anxiety.

Are Zesty chocolates suitable for celiacs?
Yes, Zesty chocolates are gluten-free, as indicated on the packaging. According to the Codex Alimentarius, all products that contain 20 milligrams of gluten per kg of food can be considered gluten-free.

Are Zesty chocolates suitable for diabetics?
Yes, as it does not contain added sugars and contains maltitol, a natural sweetener, which has a lower glycemic index than sucrose. Therefore, there are no spikes in insulin levels in the blood. In moderation, people with diabetes can consume Zesty chocolates.

What makes Zesty chocolates different in terms of ingredients?
In the case of Zesty chocolate, one of the distinguishing features is the rather short list of ingredients compared to other chocolates, especially when we are talking about filled chocolates. The first ingredient is cocoa paste, which is not the case in the vast majority of chocolates (many of which have fat or sugar as their first ingredient). The fact that it contains inulin is another advantage, as it increases satiety. These chocolates also have a high fibre content (10g per 100g of food). The combination of ingredients is very interesting nutritionally, as we get the benefits of cocoa (vitamin B complex, phosphorus, magnesium) and eliminate the problems of sugar.