Calories in Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a nutrient-dense treat made from cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and sugar. It is renowned for its high concentration of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which support cardiovascular health and brain function.
Common Variations
| Variation | Serving | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Square (approx. 10g) | 10g | 60 | 0.8g | 4.6g | 4.3g |
| 70-85% Cocoa | 100g | 598 | 7.8g | 45.9g | 42.6g |
| 60-69% Cocoa | 100g | 579 | 6.1g | 52.4g | 38.3g |
| Dark Chocolate with Almonds | 100g | 601 | 10g | 40g | 45g |
| Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate | 100g | 520 | 6g | 50g | 35g |
Health Benefits
High in powerful antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids.
May improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Contains minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc.
Nutrition Tips
- Choose varieties with at least 70% cocoa content to maximize antioxidant benefits.
- Be mindful of portion sizes as dark chocolate is very calorie-dense despite its health benefits.
- Pair a small square with fruit like raspberries or strawberries to satisfy sweet cravings with more fiber.
- Check the ingredient list for 'alkalized' or 'dutched' cocoa, which may have fewer antioxidants.
- Store in a cool, dry place to avoid fat bloom, which is the white coating that can appear on the surface.
GAYA Tracking Tip
For the most accurate tracking, take a photo of the chocolate bar next to a common object for scale, or capture the nutritional label if available, so GAYA can identify the cocoa percentage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a single square of dark chocolate?+
A standard single square (about 10 grams) of 70-85% dark chocolate contains approximately 60 calories. However, this can vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the bar.
Is dark chocolate better for you than milk chocolate?+
Yes, dark chocolate generally contains more cocoa and less sugar than milk chocolate. This results in a higher concentration of beneficial flavonoids and fewer empty calories from sugar.
Does dark chocolate contain caffeine?+
Yes, dark chocolate contains small amounts of caffeine. The darker the chocolate (higher cocoa content), the higher the caffeine level, though it is still much lower than a cup of coffee.
Related Foods
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