Are Dark Chocolate and Red Wine Healthy?

It is often said that a piece of dark chocolate and a glass of red wine before bed can help a person stay healthy. Although these two may seem like unlikely candidates for health foods, both are linked to undeniable health benefits. The only question is, do the benefits outweigh the drawbacks?

Dark Chocolate

It is important to remember not all chocolate is nutritionally equal. Chocolate comes from the cocoa bean, and these solid bean parts are paired with additional ingredients. The more added sugar and artificial sweeteners are added, the more the chocolate transitions away from its original taste and nutrition.

Dark chocolate is known for its deep and rich flavor. While every variety of chocolate contains iron, antioxidants, and fiber, dark chocolate is the most nutrient-dense. Dark chocolate includes the highest amount of cacao solids, making it the best choice of chocolate for health-conscious people.

Two pieces of Dilettante's Dark Chocolate TruffleCremes provide 5% of a person's recommended daily fiber and iron. These nutrients can have a high impact, but keep in mind TruffleCremes have 53 calories and 5 grams of sugar each. The key to unlocking dark chocolate's health benefits is to eat it in moderation.

Dark chocolate includes the highest amount of cacao solids, making it the best choice of chocolate for health-conscious people.

Red Wine

Red wine shares many characteristics with chocolate and comes in many different flavors and forms. The dark and sweet drink receives its nutritional value from the natural acids included in the wine. As a result, red wine not only pairs well with chocolate's flavor but its nutrition as well. The acids in red wine provide a wealth of benefits similar to dark chocolate: vitamins, antioxidants, and iron.

While all red wines include essential nutrients, the low amount of sugar in Pinot Noir makes it the healthiest choice. In addition, the large amounts of antioxidants strengthen the body's immune system and positively impacts blood pressure and cholesterol.

Once again, the key to these health benefits is to enjoy red wine in moderation. Not only does wine have sugar, but alcohol can also damage a person's liver, and drinking too much can weaken an immune system instead of strengthening it.

The Perfect Amount

Together, enjoying dark chocolate and wine can prevent sickness, help blood production, and reduce cancer risk. Consuming in excess may lead to negative health outcomes, but enjoying each in moderation is a treat that provides tangible benefits.

Eating one ounce of chocolate and drinking one glass of red wine is the recommended amount to receive health benefits without overindulging. Although dessert and wine are best enjoyed in the evening, refrain from eating or drinking for at least two hours before going to sleep. Chocolate contains small amounts of caffeine, and the alcohol in the red wine won't bring good sleep.

Every person's body is different, and what works in one diet may not work for another. It is suggested to change eating and drinking habits slowly to find out what works the best.

Consuming in excess may lead to negative health outcomes, but enjoying each in moderation is a treat that provides tangible benefits.

Experiment with New Flavors

Enjoy chocolate for more than simply its nutrition. Dark chocolate comes in different forms and flavors, each with distinct flavor profiles. Even those who usually prefer white or milk chocolate are bound to find a treat to enjoy.

Two hand-dipped truffles, three TruffleCremes, and ten chocolate-covered espresso beans are all equivalent to one ounce of dark chocolate. Dilettante creates each of these confections using all-natural ingredients and couverture-grade dark chocolate for the best taste possible. Pair with a glass of red wine, and enjoy the complimentary tastes.

Ryan

Raised in the Pacific Northwest, Ryan has a fondness for the outdoors, music, and coffee. Some of his favorites are Dilettante's Chocolate-Covered Bing Cherries and L'Orange Truffles. Through his writing and content, he hopes to grow the Dilettante community.