Nutritionist Felipe Rizzetto, from the Federal Hospital of Lagoa in Rio de Janeiro, explains that excessive consumption of the product can lead to weight gain and other related disorders, such as increased blood sugar levels. There is also a risk of skin irritations, stomach issues, and intestinal mucosa problems. “A large amount of fat can cause diarrhea. For children, chocolate consumption should be controlled, especially in the first year of life, due to its high sugar and fat content,” says Felipe. For a chocolate lover, he advises a maximum consumption of 40 grams of chocolate per day.
Some people choose to buy diet chocolates thinking they are avoiding calories, but in fact, diet products can be even more caloric than regular chocolate. “The indication of this product is for people with dietary restrictions, such as those with diabetes who control or substitute sugar, and not for people with calorie restrictions,” states the nutritionist.
But chocolate also has benefits. The sweet contains oleic acid, and when consumed in moderate amounts, it can contribute to raising good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering bad cholesterol (LDL). Chocolate is also rich in flavonoids with antioxidant properties. When consumed in moderation and within a balanced diet, the product acts as an antioxidant and protector of the cardiovascular system. It is also considered a natural antidepressant, alleviates premenstrual tension (PMS) symptoms, and is an energy stimulant. Types of chocolate:
• Dark: Contains a higher amount and mass of cocoa fruit. With little sugar and no milk.
• Milk: The recipe includes liquor and cocoa butter, sugar, milk, powdered milk, or condensed milk.
• White: A mixture of sugar, milk, cocoa butter, and lecithin. It does not include the cocoa fruit or seed.
It is also worth remembering: Dogs and chocolate do not mix! A small dog weighing 5 to 20 kilos can die from ingesting 50 to 200 grams of milk chocolate, while 6 to 20 grams of fat-free chocolate can be fatal for an animal of the same size. Large dogs can tolerate larger amounts, but the safest rule is to keep all chocolate out of reach of your little dog.
Source: Internal Communication of the Ministry of Health, by Maria Vitória