For many years, dieting was associated with suffering and giving up sweet indulgences. However, this myth has been debunked. While losing weight, you don’t need to completely detox from chocolate. You can still eat it, but in moderation. So, how much can you have? Dr. Michał Wrzosek, a clinical and sports nutritionist, provided some insights.
Michał Wrzosek posted a video on his Instagram explaining how much chocolate you can eat on a diet. First, you should choose products with the highest cocoa content possible, such as 85%. The more cocoa, the less sugar. However, chocolate is still a very calorie-dense product. For example, 100 grams of chocolate has about 600 calories, which is equivalent to 1 kilogram of apples. The nutritionist advised that chocolate should be eaten in moderation. He emphasized that 80-90% of your calories should come from unprocessed food, while the remaining 10-20% can be reserved for treats. Additionally, maintaining a calorie deficit is essential for weight loss, meaning you can still enjoy sweets without hindering your progress.
According to Wrzosek, 30 grams of chocolate is enough to lift your mood. A single square of classic dark chocolate weighs about 6 grams, so in practice, five squares can make you happy and satisfy your sweet craving. The great taste isn't the only benefit of chocolate.
The right amount of chocolate can also be good for your body. "Over the last 10 years, more studies have confirmed that moderate consumption of dark chocolate and cocoa can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Eating 3-4 squares of chocolate can provide adults with 7-8% of their daily magnesium requirement," explained Dr. Regina Wierzejska, an expert in health sciences. Remember, it's always best to consult a specialist who can tailor a diet that works best for you.