With the Easter approaching, the temptation and the desire for chocolate grows. Over the past four years, the consumption of candy has increased in Brazil: from 85.5% in 2020 to 92.9% in 2024, according to Kantar WorldPanel data by Mondeléz.
For those looking for a healthy lifestyle, according to Fulvia Hazarabedian, head of the Bio Nutri da Bio Ritmo Program – Brand fitness high end – It is possible to integrate the food into the diet without prejudice. “If you like chocolate, you don’t have to eliminate you from your life. The secret is in moderation. It’s the famous saying: ‘Everything in excess is bad,” he says.
Healthier chocolates
Some versions of chocolate are even beneficial to health. Bitter, for example, has flavonoids and caffeinewhich increase the disposition and contribute to muscle function. In addition, flavonoids are powerful antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress generated by intense exercise. Chocolate also stimulates the release of endorphin, providing a sense of well-being.
However, as Fulvia Hazarabedian highlights, chocolate also has high sugar and fat, especially ultra -processed, such as milk and white. “The more natural, the better. The more attractive options from the nutritional point of view have at least 50% cocoa and are less industrialized,” he explains.
These versions have a higher concentration of beneficial nutrients and fewer refined and additive sugars. Handcrafted chocolates and made of healthy fats, such as the coming of chestnuts, such as cashews and pará nuts, are also appropriate alternatives.
Moderation is essential in daily consumption
Even though the dark chocolate It can have several good properties, the nutritionist advises it as a pre-workout. “It is best to save for special occasions, after a meal. And limit consumption to about 30 g per day,” points out Fulvia Hazarabedian.
For those who want to enjoy the ingredient with less guilt and more flavor, the chief nutritionist of Bio Rhythm shares a healthy mousse recipe with only three ingredients.
Ingredients
- 160 g of dark or bitter chocolate
- 340 g de yogurt natural
- 1 cup of skimmed milk powder
Preparation mode
Beat all ingredients in a blender until a creamy and homogeneous mixture. Distribute in cups and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
By Beatriz Aguiar