The Fallacy of ‘Healthy’ Chocolate: Nutritionist Debunks Claims of Health Benefits
In recent years, the snacks market has been flooded with newfangled products claiming to be ‘healthier’ alternatives to traditional chocolate bars. With labels like ‘raw’, ‘better-for-you’, and ‘no added sugar’, these products have gained popularity among health-conscious consumers. However, according to Dr. Marion Nestle, a renowned nutritionist and professor emeritus at New York University, the idea that one chocolate bar can be healthier than another is a fallacy, regardless of its darkness.
One of the main claims made by some dark chocolate bars is that they contain more flavonols, which studies suggest can ward off heart issues. However, Dr. Nestle argues that the amount of flavonols present in these bars is so minimal that one would have to consume immoderate amounts to reap any benefits. Paradoxically, this excessive consumption would lead to weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease due to the high calorie content. In fact, some nutritionists estimate that one would need to eat as many as seven chocolate bars a day or 750 calories worth of dark chocolate to experience any noticeable benefit.
Dr. Nestle emphasizes that it is misleading to describe chocolate as healthy, but acknowledges that it can be a great marketing ploy. She suggests that chocolate should be enjoyed as a candy, in moderation, of course. While cocoa does contain antioxidants that might promote health, the amounts are so small that consuming chocolate in excess is necessary to derive any benefits. Dr. Nestle also highlights the importance of watching calorie intake.
The notion that chocolate may have health benefits is often linked to flavonols, which have been associated with improvements in brain function. However, when cacao, the raw beans from cacao plants, is heated and crushed to make cocoa powder, many of the flavonols degrade. Additionally, processed chocolate contains sugars, cocoa butter, and vegetable oils, which add more calories, sugar, and fat. Unprocessed cocoa beans have a bitter taste, so companies mix the powder with other substances to improve the flavor.
Even dark chocolate bars, which are often touted as healthier options, can contain added sugar and fat to enhance taste. For example, Hu, a brand that claims to make ‘better for you’ chocolate, produces 60g bars that contain around 190 calories and 8g of saturated fat per half. In comparison, a Hershey’s bar weighing 43g contains 210 calories and the same amount of saturated fat. A Snickers bar weighing 52g contains slightly more saturated fat and around 250 calories per gram. Other products, such as Skin Glow’s ‘vitamin-infused’ chocolate, contain as much sugar as two packs of Sour Patch Kid candies.
Despite these findings, nutritionists are careful not to completely demonize chocolate. They acknowledge that it can still be enjoyed as part of a healthy balanced diet. Dr. Carolyn Williams, a nutritionist based in Alabama, suggests that if consuming a little chocolate brings satisfaction and pleasure from food, it can be beneficial. However, she warns against excessive consumption and emphasizes that eating tons of chocolate every day will not improve one’s health.
While there is no official guidance on how much chocolate one should consume daily, the American Heart Association recommends limiting chocolate intake to no more than 100 calories per day. Polls indicate that approximately 268 million Americans consider themselves chocolate lovers, which accounts for around two-thirds of the country’s population.
In conclusion, the notion of ‘healthy’ chocolate is debunked by nutritionist Dr. Marion Nestle. Despite claims made by certain dark chocolate bars regarding their flavonol content, the amount is so minimal that consuming excessive amounts is necessary to experience any benefits. This excessive consumption would lead to weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease due to the high calorie content. While chocolate can still be enjoyed as part of a healthy balanced diet, moderation is key. It is important to be mindful of calorie intake and not rely on chocolate as a source of significant health benefits.
