The delicious dark chocolate, enjoyed for numerous years, is made from cocoa beans that are filled with flavonoids. These antioxidants are tied to multiple health benefits. However, not all dark chocolates are created equal. Some brands have a high fat and sugar content, while others contain very little cocoa, thereby offering lesser health benefits. This article aims to assess the best types of dark chocolate for health.
When it comes to dark chocolate, the higher the percentage of cocoa, the better. Look for brands that contain at least 70% cocoa solids. This ensures that you are getting a high amount of flavonoids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, dark chocolate is lower in sugar than milk chocolate, making it a healthier choice overall.
When choosing the best dark chocolate for health, it is also important to consider the source of the cocoa beans. Look for brands that use sustainably sourced cocoa beans, as these are often of higher quality and contain fewer additives. Additionally, organic dark chocolate is a good choice, as it is free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
In summary, the best dark chocolate for health is one that contains at least 70% cocoa solids, is sustainably sourced, and preferably organic. By choosing high-quality dark chocolate, you can enjoy its delicious taste while reaping the numerous health benefits it has to offer.
Best Dark Chocolate for Health
We all crave for a sweet treat every once in a while, but what if we told you that indulging in some dark chocolate could actually be beneficial for your health? Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, not all dark chocolates are created equal, and some may have added sugars or lower cocoa content. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dark chocolate for health, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth while still taking care of your body. Check out our top picks below.
1. Lindt EXCELLENCE 95% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Bar
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dark chocolate option, Lindt EXCELLENCE 95% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Bar might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The chocolate has a well-balanced, robust cocoa flavor that is not too bitter or overpowering.
- The texture is exceptionally silky and smooth.
- The candy bars are pre-portioned into squares for balanced complexity.
Cons
- The chocolate might be too strong for those who are not used to the taste of dark chocolate.
- The bars are relatively small, so they might not be enough to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
- The packaging might be too bulky for some people who prefer more compact chocolate bars.
We highly recommend Lindt EXCELLENCE 95% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Bar for anyone who wants to enjoy a guilt-free treat that is both delicious and healthy. The chocolate has a rich and complex flavor that will satisfy your taste buds without compromising your health goals.
The well-balanced cocoa notes and the silky feel of the chocolate make it a perfect choice for anyone who loves dark chocolate. The candy bars are also pre-portioned into squares, which makes it easy to control your portions and avoid overindulging.
However, if you’re not a fan of the taste of dark chocolate, you might find this chocolate too strong for your liking. The bars are also relatively small, so you might need to eat more than one to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. Finally, the packaging might be too bulky for some people who prefer more compact chocolate bars.
Overall, Lindt EXCELLENCE 95% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Bar is a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy and delicious dark chocolate treat. The chocolate is made with premium ingredients that are sustainably sourced, so you can feel good about your purchase.
2. DOVE PROMISES Dark Chocolate Candy Individually Wrapped Bulk Pack
If you’re looking for a delicious dark chocolate that’s not only tasty but also healthy, DOVE PROMISES Dark Chocolate Candy is a great choice.
Pros
- The silky, smooth texture and delicious, lingering taste ensure a satisfying chocolate experience.
- Each individually wrapped piece shares a special message under the foil wrapper to lift you up and make you smile.
- The 150-piece bulk candy bag is perfect for candy buffets at parties, piñatas, and after-dinner nightcaps.
Cons
- The candy may melt during shipping in hot weather conditions, so be careful when ordering in the summer.
- The individually wrapped candies may be too small for some people’s liking.
- The candy may be too sweet for those who prefer a more bitter taste in their dark chocolate.
DOVE PROMISES Dark Chocolate Candy is a great way to enjoy a delicious treat while also benefiting from the health benefits of dark chocolate. The individually wrapped pieces make it easy to share with friends and family, and the special messages under the foil wrappers add a fun and uplifting touch.
The silky, smooth texture and delicious, lingering taste of the chocolate ensure a satisfying experience, and the 150-piece bulk candy bag is perfect for parties and other occasions. However, be careful when ordering during hot weather conditions as the candy may melt during shipping.
Overall, we highly recommend DOVE PROMISES Dark Chocolate Candy for anyone looking for a tasty and healthy treat.
3. Health Warrior Chia Bars, Dark Chocolate
If you’re looking for a healthy and convenient snack option, Health Warrior Chia Bars in Dark Chocolate are a great choice. They’re made with plant-based ingredients, gluten-free, and contain only 3 grams of sugar.
Pros
- Made from real ingredients like chia that help keep you full
- Provides all-natural fiber, omega-3s, protein, antioxidants, magnesium, calcium, and iron
- Great for breakfast on the go, pre or post-workout like yoga or running, or as a healthy snack between meals
Cons
- Contains added sugar
- Some reviewers find the bars to be dry
- Small serving size
These bars are perfect for those who are always on the go and looking for a quick and healthy snack. The chia seeds provide a satisfying crunch, while the dark chocolate adds just the right amount of sweetness.
The Health Warrior Chia Bars are a great source of nutrients and energy. They’re also vegan, Kosher certified, gluten-free, and Non-GMO Project Verified. However, some reviewers have found the bars to be dry and small in serving size. Additionally, while the bars are made with all-natural ingredients, they do contain added sugar.
Overall, we recommend Health Warrior Chia Bars in Dark Chocolate for anyone looking for a healthy and convenient snack option. They’re perfect for those who are always on the go and need a quick and satisfying snack to keep them going.
4. Bouchard Belgian Dark Chocolate Gluten-Free 72% Cacao
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dark chocolate option, Bouchard Belgian Dark Chocolate Gluten-Free 72% Cacao is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The ridges in the chocolate make for an even richer cocoa flavor that exposes your taste buds to a unique experience.
- Bouchard is known for producing the best dark chocolate for the best possible price.
- This product is made in Belgium with quality ingredients and contains no soy or vanilla.
Cons
- Some people may find the taste too bitter, as it is a dark chocolate with 72% cacao.
- The individual packaging may not be environmentally friendly.
- The product may be too expensive for some people.
This dark chocolate is an excellent source of natural flavonoids and other antioxidants, making it vegan-friendly, keto-friendly, diet-friendly, non-GMO, gluten-free, and alkali-free. It is also an excellent source of fiber and iron, with 50% less sugar than Bouchard Milk Chocolate (1.6g Sugar per Piece) and only 28 calories per piece.
The individually wrapped bite-sized pieces make it easy to consume, and the packaging ensures that the product stays fresh for a long time. The sprinkle of sea salt on the chocolate adds a unique and delicious flavor that pairs well with a nice brandy, port, or rich red wine.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dark chocolate option that is healthy and delicious, Bouchard Belgian Dark Chocolate Gluten-Free 72% Cacao is definitely worth trying.
5. Green & Black’s Organic Dark Chocolate Bar, 85% Cacao, 10 – 3.17 oz Bars
If you’re looking for a rich, complex taste of simplicity in dark chocolate, Green & Black’s Organic 85% Dark Chocolate Bar is an excellent choice. This chocolate candy bar is crafted with the finest Trinitario cocoa beans, making for an intense dark chocolate experience. Each gourmet chocolate bar is made from USDA Organic, fair trade, and Non-GMO ingredients, ensuring that you’re getting the highest quality chocolate possible.
Pros
- Made with the finest Trinitario cocoa beans for an intense dark chocolate experience.
- Fair trade chocolate made with USDA Organic and Non-GMO ingredients.
- Individually wrapped gourmet chocolate bars are perfect for sharing or gifting.
Cons
- May be too intense for those who prefer milk chocolate or sweeter chocolate.
- Some may find the texture to be slightly grainy.
- May be more expensive than other dark chocolate options.
We recently tried Green & Black’s Organic 85% Dark Chocolate Bar and were impressed with the rich, complex taste. The chocolate has a smooth, slightly bitter taste that is perfect for those who enjoy the intensity of dark chocolate. The individually wrapped bars make it easy to share with friends or to give as a gift.
One thing to note is that the texture of the chocolate may be slightly grainy, which may be a turn off for some. Additionally, the intense flavor may not be for everyone, especially those who prefer sweeter chocolate or milk chocolate. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality, organic dark chocolate option, Green & Black’s is an excellent choice.
6. CRAZYOUTLET HERSHEY’S ZERO SUGAR SPECIAL DARK Sugar Free Mildly Sweet Chocolate Candy Bite Size Bars
If you’re a dark chocolate lover who is looking for a healthier option, CRAZYOUTLET HERSHEY’S ZERO SUGAR SPECIAL DARK Sugar Free Mildly Sweet Chocolate Candy Bite Size Bars are a great choice.
Pros
- These chocolates are sugar-free, making them a great option for those who are watching their sugar intake.
- They are individually wrapped, which makes them easy to take on the go or to share with others.
- The bulk pack of 2 pounds means that you’ll have plenty of chocolates to last you for a while.
Cons
- Some people may not enjoy the mildly sweet taste of these chocolates, as they are not as sweet as regular chocolates.
- If you’re not a fan of Hershey’s chocolates, you may not enjoy the taste of these chocolates.
- The repackaging of the product by CrazyOutlet may make some people hesitant to purchase these chocolates.
These chocolates are perfect for snacking on, and they’re also great for topping cakes and desserts. The individually wrapped chocolates make them easy to portion control, and the sugar-free aspect of them makes them a healthier option.
The taste of these chocolates is good, although they are not as sweet as regular chocolates. The bulk pack of 2 pounds is a great value, and it means that you’ll have plenty of chocolates to last you for a while.
Overall, if you’re looking for a healthier option for dark chocolates, CRAZYOUTLET HERSHEY’S ZERO SUGAR SPECIAL DARK Sugar Free Mildly Sweet Chocolate Candy Bite Size Bars are a great choice. They’re tasty, individually wrapped, and sugar-free, making them a great option for those who are watching their sugar intake.
7. Kiva Raw Organic Cacao Powder
We highly recommend purchasing Kiva Raw Organic Cacao Powder for all your dark chocolate needs.
Pros
- Raw and organic cacao powder
- High in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals
- Made from premium Criollo cacao beans from Ecuador
Cons
- Some users experience heartburn
- Nutritional information on packaging may be incorrect
- May not be sweet enough for some users
Kiva Raw Organic Cacao Powder is perfect for those who want a healthy alternative to traditional chocolate. The raw and organic powder is high in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals, making it a great addition to any diet. Plus, it is made from premium Criollo cacao beans from Ecuador, which are rare and represent only 1% of world production.
However, some users may experience heartburn after consuming the powder. Additionally, the nutritional information on the packaging may be incorrect, so it is important to do your own research before consuming. Lastly, some users may find that the powder is not sweet enough for their tastes.
Overall, we highly recommend Kiva Raw Organic Cacao Powder for those looking for a healthy and delicious dark chocolate alternative.
8. Good Balance Health Dark Chocolate Wafers
If you’re looking for a healthy sweet snack, Good Balance Health Dark Chocolate Wafers are a great choice. They are dairy-free and soy-free, made with all-natural ingredients, and come in a resealable bag to keep them fresh and crispy.
Pros
- Delicious semi-sweet taste
- Easy to melt for coating or dipping
- Perfect for decorating desserts
Cons
- May not be sweet enough for those with a strong sweet tooth
- May not be suitable for those with nut allergies
- May not be suitable for those with a gluten sensitivity
We really enjoyed the taste of these dark chocolate wafers. They have a rich and delicious flavor that is not too sweet, making them a great option for those who prefer a less sweet taste. They are also very easy to melt, either in the microwave or on the stove, and they melt into a smooth and creamy consistency that is perfect for coating or dipping your favorite snacks or fruits.
We also love that these chocolate wafers are perfect for decorating desserts. They are great for birthday parties, weddings, or any special occasion, and you can use them to decorate cookies, cakes, and other baked goods. They are also a great additive to your salty snacks, giving you a sweet and salty snack.
Overall, we highly recommend Good Balance Health Dark Chocolate Wafers for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious sweet snack. They are perfect for those who are dairy-free or soy-free, and they are made with all-natural ingredients that you can feel good about.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best dark chocolate for health, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
Cocoa Percentage
The cocoa percentage is an important factor to consider when choosing dark chocolate. Higher cocoa percentages typically mean more flavanols, which are beneficial antioxidants found in cocoa. Look for dark chocolate with a cocoa percentage of at least 70% for the most health benefits.
Quality Ingredients
It’s important to choose dark chocolate made with high-quality ingredients. Look for chocolate that uses real cocoa butter instead of vegetable oil, and avoid products that contain additives like artificial flavors or preservatives.
Fair Trade and Organic Certification
Choosing dark chocolate that is fair trade and organic certified can ensure that the product was produced in an ethical and sustainable manner. Fair trade certification means that the farmers who grew the cocoa beans were paid fairly for their work, while organic certification ensures that the chocolate was produced without the use of harmful pesticides or chemicals.
Portion Control
While dark chocolate can be a healthy addition to your diet, it’s still important to practice portion control. Stick to a small serving size, such as one or two squares of chocolate, to avoid consuming too many calories and sugar.
By considering these factors when choosing dark chocolate, you can enjoy a tasty treat that also provides health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of consuming dark chocolate?
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. It has also been shown to improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, dark chocolate may improve brain function and reduce the risk of diabetes.
How does the percentage of cocoa in dark chocolate affect its healthiness?
The higher the percentage of cocoa in dark chocolate, the more flavanols it contains. Flavanols are a type of antioxidant that have been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and brain function. However, it’s important to note that higher cocoa percentages also mean a more bitter taste.
Which dark chocolate brands are known for low heavy metal content?
Some dark chocolate brands that are known for having low heavy metal content include Lindt, Green & Black’s, and Alter Eco. It’s important to check the label for information on heavy metal content before purchasing any dark chocolate.
Can dark chocolate be a part of a weight loss diet?
Dark chocolate can be a part of a weight loss diet in moderation. It’s important to choose high-quality dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa and to limit portions to avoid consuming excess calories.
What are the best dark chocolate options for diabetics?
Diabetics should choose dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa and little added sugar. Some good options include Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate, Lindt Excellence 85% Cocoa, and Endangered Species Dark Chocolate with 88% Cocoa.
Are there any health differences between Lindt 85% dark chocolate and other high-cocoa options?
While all high-cocoa dark chocolate options offer health benefits, the specific health benefits may vary slightly depending on the brand and type. Lindt 85% dark chocolate is a good option, as it contains a high percentage of cocoa and is known for its smooth, rich flavor. However, it’s important to choose a brand that has low heavy metal content and limited added sugar.
