Chocolate that is 'full of nutrients' is world's healthiest and contains no milk or sugar
Dark chocolate is known to be healthier than milk or white chocolate, but there's one type of chocolate that is even better for you - and it contains no sugar or milk
Chocolate is often seen as a naughty treat due to its high sugar content and lack of nutrients, but there's one type that packs quite a health punch. It's well known that dark chocolate, which boasts a high percentage of cocoa solids and little to no milk, trumps milk or white chocolate in the health stakes.
Nutrition experts attribute this to the health-boosting properties found within the cocoa bean. These include a host of phytochemicals proven to have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antihypertensive properties, according to Whitney English, a registered dietitian at Whitney E.RD, speaking to TODAY.com.
"The more cocoa solids a product contains, the more nutritious it is. Dark chocolate contains the most cocoa bean solids and therefore is the most nutrient-dense," she elaborated, reports Surrey Live.
Moreover, dark chocolate is rich in flavanoids, a natural compound with numerous health benefits. This is why health gurus often recommend opting for chocolate that's over 70% dark if you're seeking a healthier sweet fix.
"If you opt for very high cocoa content, then you're less likely to consume anything that's unhealthy. Choose something with the fewest ingredients on the label, and then you know you're getting something truly natural with very little removed," advises Professor Tim Spector, founder of ZOE.
In essence, the higher the cocoa content - the healthier the chocolate!
So, what's the healthiest chocolate?
Through our research, we've compiled a list of chocolates available across the UK for Brits to enjoy that boast an exceptionally high percentage of dark chocolate.
Hamilton's Chocolatiers state: "Imagine diving into a pool of antioxidants; that's what indulging in 100% cocoa chocolate is like. Cacao is packed with polyphenols, substances that fight oxidative stress and have the potential to quell inflammation. The high flavanol content in dark chocolate, particularly at 100% cocoa, can also promote a surge in heart health benefits."
Hotel Chocolat
The well-known chocolatier offers 100% Dark Chocolate Batons - Rare and Vintage.
Montezuma's Dark Chocolate
Stocked at Sainsbury's, this is also a 100% dark chocolate crafted entirely without milk, making it perfect for vegans.
Firetree rich volcanic chocolate
Another 100% chocolate option, this packs 14g of protein.
According to Firetree's website: "The unique and complex flavours of this 100% cocoa are teased out during the long, slow process of whole bean roasting. This drives out any bitterness to reveal a deeply complex flavour that will surprise and delight the most refined chocolate palates."
It's crucial to check the ingredients and ensure the chocolate has a minimal amount of sugar and milk.