Dark Chocolate Benefits

All right, Ms. Anderson, I want to be clear about chocolate. Not milk chocolate. Dark chocolate is healthy. It seems you are not a fan of dark chocolate. That is okay, I will give you the information, and you may change your mind. Of course, everything in moderation, correct?

With that being said, I will run down the benefits of dark chocolate. Dark chocolate with 70% or higher cocoa content is the healthiest. We all know that 50-60% has more sugar and might taste better. I suggest you aim for 65% or higher and try that for a while. You are nodding, but I notice your eyes shifted to the left, which usually denotes dishonesty. I am not saying this to insult you, only to inform you that it appears you eat more chocolate and probably a lot of milk chocolate than you want to admit to your primary care physician.

How about I explain the components in dark chocolate?

Polyphenols – plant-based micronutrients that have proven benefits for fighting cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. They neutralize free radicals and support brain and gut health.

Flavonoids – polyphenols found in fruit, vegetables, tea, and red wine. Plant-based compounds that promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and reduce neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s.

Procyanidins - polyphenols found in apples (Red Delicious and Granny Smith), cocoa, red wine, seeds, and nuts. Foods such as cranberries and blueberries are in this group. Promotes vascular health and has been known to help with blood pressure. A big plus is the benefits for post-menopausal issues.

That’s a lot of information, I know. I saw you perk up when I talked about post-menopausal issues and heart health. There are many health benefits of dark chocolate, so let’s talk about brands now.

Ghirardelli Dark Intense contains 72% cacao and is popular for its smooth taste. Your eyebrows show surprise. You know, Ghirardelli dark baking chips are excellent; it is my go-to brand for homemade chocolate chip anything!

Dove Deeper Dark has about 70% and has small pieces or squared bars - great to nibble on after dinner while watching your favorite sitcom.

Lindt offers many varieties at 60% or higher. Of course, I don’t want you eating extreme amounts of dark chocolate each day. Anything in excess overrides the health benefit. What I’m saying is that a larger size, like an 8-oz chocolate bar, is not better than a tiny Lindt Extra Dark Truffle.

See’s, my favorite, has about 62% cacao in its dark chocolate candies. The best choice would be dark chocolate-covered almonds. You get the silky chocolate in your mouth, the crunch of the almond, and the benefits that come from nuts and cacao.

Ethel M chocolates: I’ve never been able to find the percentage of chocolate in their products. I find that a bit sneaky, don’t you? I think See’s candies are better. Consistent with dark chocolate that melts uniformly in your mouth. The danger is, then I want more!

Valrhona is an excellent brand, but it's more expensive. You might like the 70% Guanaja or the 64% Manjari. I have not tried either of these, so I cannot vouch for their taste. Maybe sometime, if you are in San Francisco’s Union Square, go down to Nordstrom’s food court in the basement. They used to have an excellent candy area with many European brands.

Theo Chocolates has excellent ones, and if you like dark chocolate with sea salt, their 70% cacao bar is excellent. They used to manufacture their bars in Seattle, but now partner with trusted companies to produce them. I went to a tasting there once. They wore white jackets, and the aroma of chocolate had my mouth watering the entire time. It was a factory tour because they were a “bean to bar” facility. I tasted EVERY piece they handed out, so that day, I went home full of chocolate. They also had Valentine’s Day extravaganzas. Our daughter sent us to one where models were dressed in nothing but chocolate. No, really, I’m serious! My shy husband didn’t know where to look.

Ha, ha, glad you like my story. It’s a fact, not fiction, I swear!

Let’s get back to you.

It is tempting to make a batch of brownies from a Ghirardelli box, and it’s okay to do so occasionally. I know, I sure do, that that Costco cake is beckoning to you. The pre-made desserts all taste so yummy.

Maybe try to stick to dark chocolate in small amounts, instead. Boost your antioxidants while boosting your mood. Find a Theo’s 85% bar if you crave intensity - are you a member of REI? They sell Theo bars. Valrhona has a silky feel on your tongue, like Dove chocolate.

Moderation is the key. Squares of dark chocolate are like small pieces of heaven melting in your mouth. There are many choices; I know you will find a favorite at a great price point!

Copyright © 2/6/2026 by Andrea O. Corwin

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