The Health Benefits of Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Dark Chocolate
Chocolate is one of lifes simple sweet pleasures, but not all chocolate bars are created equal when it comes to nutrition and health. The type of chocolate, cocoa content, and ingredients can significantly impact its benefits.
Dark chocolate with higher percentages of cocoa offers unique advantages compared to milk chocolate thanks to its abundance of antioxidants called cocoa flavanols. And one excellent option for premium dark chocolate is Ghirardelli's 60% Cacao Squares.
Read on to learn more about why dark chocolate like Ghirardelli 60% Cacao can be a smart choice for your diet and health.
What Makes Dark Chocolate Healthy?
The main factor that gives dark chocolate its healthy credentials is its high cocoa content. Cocoa comes from cacao beans and is naturally abundant in beneficial plant nutrients called cocoa flavanols.
Cocoa flavanols belong to the polyphenol family of antioxidants found in plant foods. They have been associated with advantages for heart health, circulation, cognition, inflammation, and more.
However, not all chocolate contains the same level of cocoa flavanols. In general, the higher percentage of cocoa solids, the greater amount of these beneficial compounds.
Cocoa Percentage in Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate must contain at least 35% cocoa solids, but most good-quality dark chocolate has around 60-85% cocoa content. The higher the percentage, the less sugar and more pronounced dark flavor.
Heres an overview of common types of dark chocolate:
- 35-49% Cacao - Milk chocolate-like sweetness with hint of dark flavor
- 50-59% Cacao - Balance of sweet and dark coco flavors
- 60-69% Cacao - Moderate dark flavor, not overly sweet or bitter
- 70-85% Cacao - Very dark, intense flavor with some bitterness
Ghirardellis 60% Cacao falls right in the sweet spot, offering rich chocolate intensity without an overpowering level of bitterness.
Antioxidant Content in Dark Chocolate
Independent lab testing has found that 60% dark chocolate like Ghirardelli contains antioxidants called catechins, as well as theobromine and modest amounts of caffeine. However, its cocoa flavanol content is what really makes it stand out nutritionally.
Testing by ConsumerLab found a 1 ounce serving of 60% dark chocolate supplies:
- 326 mg procyanidins (a class of cocoa flavanols)
- 0.3 mg catechin (type of flavanol)
By comparison, milk chocolate contains only about 60 mg procyanidins per serving. So the higher cocoa content of dark chocolate pays dividends for antioxidant content.
Potential Health Benefits of 60% Dark Chocolate
The cocoa flavanols and other compounds found in dark chocolate like Ghirardellis have been associated with a number of science-backed health benefits.
Heart Health
One of the best researched effects of cocoa flavanols is on cardiovascular health. Multiple studies have found associations between higher cocoa flavanol intake and improvements in:
- Blood pressure
- Blood vessel elasticity
- Blood flow
- Cholesterol profiles
- Clotting factors
- Inflammatory markers
These vascular benefits may add up to reduced risk of heart attack or stroke over the long term. A moderate amount of dark chocolate each day may support heart health.
Brain Function
Emerging research indicates cocoa flavanols may also promote blood flow and neuron activity in regions of the brain. This suggests benefits for:
- Cognitive performance
- Memory
- Verbal fluency
- Focus
- Processing speed
Enhanced circulation may help offset some age-related declines in mental function. More studies are underway on chocolates brain boosting potential.
Blood Sugar Control
Though chocolate has calories and carbs, some evidence points to cocoa flavanols improving insulin sensitivity and glycemic control. This may result in:
- Lower blood sugar spikes after eating
- Reduced insulin resistance
- Better HbA1c levels
Minimizing blood sugar fluctuations helps mitigate diabetes risk and complications. But portion control is still key.
Anti-Inflammation
The antioxidants in cocoa, especially the flavanols, demonstrate anti-inflammatory actions. This may help lower chronic low-grade inflammation involved in:
- Heart disease
- Cognitive decline
- Insulin resistance
- Joint pain
Chocolate wont replace anti-inflammatory medications. But its impact on inflammatory markers could provide subsidiary benefits.
Mood Enhancement
Who doesnt experience a mood boost when indulging in chocolate? Beyond just a sweet treat, research indicates cocoa compounds may have mood-lifting benefits by:
- Boosting serotonin and endorphin levels
- Reducing stress hormones like cortisol
- Increasing cerebral blood flow
These effects may help explain why chocolate seems to lift our spirits and reduce feelings of depression.
Skin Health
Cocoa flavanols antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers may also promote skin health. Some studies suggest cocoa could:
- Improve skin hydration, thickness and elasticity
- Reduce facial wrinkles and roughness
- Protect against UV damage
- Combat skin conditions like acne, dermatitis, and sensitive skin
Applying dark chocolate directly to the skin or consuming it may yield protective skin benefits.
Choosing Quality Dark Chocolate
To reap the most rewards from dark chocolate, not just any product will do. Heres what to look for in a healthy chocolate brand:
High Percentage of Cocoa
Opt for dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content or higher. The more cocoa it contains, the higher the levels of antioxidant flavanols.
Low Sugar Content
Select chocolate with minimal added sugars, ideally under 20-25 grams per 3 ounce serving. Stevia or monk fruit sweetened varieties are ideal.
No Artificial Ingredients
Avoid chocolate with artificial flavors, colors, emulsifiers, and vegetable oils. Go for ones with clean ingredient labels.
Fair Trade Sourced
Choose brands that source cocoa ethically and sustainably through fair trade certifications.
Bean-to-Bar Production
Chocolates made from scratch starting from raw cacao beans retain more flavanols compared to industrial manufacturing.
Organic Ingredients
When possible, select chocolate made with organic cocoa and other organic ingredients.
Why Ghirardelli 60% Cacao is a Smart Choice
Ghirardelli has been crafting chocolate in America since 1852. Their 60% Cacao Dark Chocolate Squares check many of the boxes for an excellent better-for-you chocolate option:
Made with Ethical Cocoa
Ghirardelli sources some of their cocoa through programs that support responsible labor practices and environmental protection.
No Artificial Ingredients
The squares contain only cocoa butter, chocolate liquor (ground cacao), sugar, soy lecithin, and natural vanilla.
Higher Cocoa Percentage
With 60% cocoa content, these squares provide more antioxidants than many standard dark chocolate products.
Fairly Low in Sugar
A 43 g square contains only 24g total sugars. The sugar isnt overbearing compared to the rich cocoa taste.
Non-GMO and Gluten-Free
The chocolate is made without genetically-modified ingredients and does not contain gluten.
ILABLE and Kosher Certified
Those with special dietary needs can enjoy Ghirardelli with certifications for LIABLE and kosher requirements.
For an easy-to-find chocolate square that delivers great taste along with decent nutrition, Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Dark fits the bill nicely.
Healthy Ways to Enjoy Ghirardelli 60% Dark Chocolate
Here are some nutritious and creative ways to eat your Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Squares as part of a healthy lifestyle:
Snack with Fruit
Pair 1-2 squares alongside fruits like strawberries, bananas, or oranges for antioxidants and fiber.
Add to Yogurt or Oatmeal
Melt a square and drizzle into yogurt, overnight oats, or breakfast porridge.
Bake with It
Substitute cocoa powder in recipes with chopped 60% dark chocolate for an antioxidant boost.
Blend into Smoothies
Add a square into your morning smoothie to make it chocolatey and satisfying.
Make Chocolate Bark
Melt chopped chocolate and mix in nuts, seeds, coconut, dried fruit, or granola.
Garnish Desserts
Shave or grate chocolate squares as a topping over fruit, ice cream, tarts, or chia pudding.
Use in Mole Sauce
Add cubed chocolate to traditional Mexican mole poblano sauce.
Make Chocolate Milk
Heat milk and mix in shavings of 60% dark chocolate for an antioxidant-rich chocolate milk.
Dip Fruit
Melt chocolate for dipping strawberries, banana slices, apple wedges, or dried apricots.
Potential Downsides to Consider
While chocolate can certainly be health-promoting in moderation, there are some potential adverse effects to keep in mind:
Caffeine Content
Chocolate contains some caffeine, though less than coffee or tea. Those sensitive may want to moderate intake later in the day.
Heavy Metals
Cocoa can absorb lead and cadmium from soil, so choose trusted fair trade organic brands when possible.
Allergies
Chocolate may contain allergens like dairy, nuts, soy, etc. Check labels carefully if food allergies.
Migraines
Some compounds in chocolate may trigger headaches in those prone to migraines.
Acne
The dairy in chocolate can spur breakouts if skin is prone to acne. Stick to small portions.
Weight Gain
While chocolate has health benefits, its still calorie dense. Practice portion control if watching your weight.
Gastrointestinal Issues
The caffeine and cocoa butter may cause stomach upset or diarrhea if you overindulge.
The Takeaway on Dark Chocolate
When selected wisely and eaten in moderation, quality dark chocolate like Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Squares can be a smart, nutritious indulgence.
The abundance of antioxidant cocoa flavanols in dark chocolate with higher cacao content provides benefits for your heart, brain, blood sugar levels, and more.
Just be mindful of portion sizes and ingredients. Limit yourself to 1-2 ounces (30-60g) a day to keep calories in check while reaping rewards.
Let chocolate be one piece of an overall healthy diet rich in whole foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, fiber, and healthy fats. When you crave something sweet, go for a square of antioxidant-packed dark chocolate and savor the experience mindfully.
Ghirardelli makes it easy to get your chocolate fix while still eating clean. Their 60% Cacao Dark Chocolate delivers a creamy, rich chocolate experience in a better-for-you blend that promotes health.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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