You may think snacking is counterintuitive to weight loss. After all, in order to shed pounds, it’s typically a good idea to cut back on the amount of calories you consume and make healthy eating a priority—which can sometimes mean giving up your favorite snacks. However, while it’s true that many of the most popular snacks out there are highly processed and loaded with sugar, sodium, and other additives that you should avoid for your health, there are plenty of healthy options out there. That includes one delicious, indulgent snack: dark chocolate.
It’s true! You don’t have to ignore your sweet tooth altogether to reach your goal weight. According to Joanna Wen, certified health coach and founder of Spices & Greens, dark chocolate can be a great addition to your diet and can even aid in weight loss when consumed in moderation. Read on for all of her expert insight on the matter.
Benefits of dark chocolate for weight loss
Love a bit of indulgence every now and then? As it turns out, snacking on some decadent dark chocolate doesn't have to put your slim waistline at risk. In fact, it could even help you lose weight.
One major health benefit of this food is the fact that it's packed with antioxidants. "[Dark chocolate] contains antioxidants, which are molecules that can protect your cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals that can potentially contribute to a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes," Wen tells us. Amazing!
In addition to all of those heart-healthy antioxidants, there are also several other nutrients to consider. "Dark chocolate also contains fiber and healthy fats, which can help you feel full and satisfied after eating," Wen says. "This can be especially helpful when trying to lose weight, as it can prevent overeating and snacking on less healthy foods."
However, remember that the type of chocolate you choose matters. "It's important to choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, as this will provide the most health benefits and the least amount of added sugars," she suggests. Choosing high-sugar options could have adverse effects, as eating too much sugar may lead to a range of risks, including weight gain.
Finally, Wen stresses the importance of moderation. "While dark chocolate is a great snack option, it's important to keep portion sizes in mind. Even though it contains healthy compounds, it is still high in calories and can contribute to weight gain if eaten in excess," she says.
So, what's a good serving size to stick to? According to her, "A small square or two of dark chocolate can provide all the health benefits without derailing your weight loss goals." Perfect!
READ MORE: 5 Super Healthy Desserts You Can Eat All The Time Without Gaining Weight, According To Nutritionists
