Dark chocolate, milk chocolate and appetite.

Chocolate is often regarded as an ‘unhealthy’ or ‘bad’ food but actually all foods can be part of a healthy balanced diet, including chocolate. So, if you like chocolate and is suitable for you to eat, then have some every now and then as part of a balanced diet.

Worth mentioning that chocolate – whether white, milk or dark – can be high in fat & sugar so try to have it as an occasional treat if you need to.

As I was doing my literature review, I came across some interesting research which suggested that dark chocolate may be more satiating than milk chocolate. Studies have shown that dark chocolate has a more intense cocoa flavour than milk chocolate and this stronger sensory signal may lead to a stronger sensory satiety response.

In the view of the differences between milk & dark chocolate – researchers compared the effect of dark chocolate and milk chocolate on appetite sensations & energy intake in healthy men (Check out my infographics below to read more!)

Obviously there are some limitations of the study which I’ve highlighted but I thought it was a very interesting study…

Having said this, don’t overthink your chocolate choices, especially to suppress your appetite! Eat any chocolate that you enjoy & is suitable for you.

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Dr. Tai Ezike (née Ibitoye) aka Tai Talks Nutrition is a leading voice in public health nutrition. She is a researcher, registered dietitian and senior lecturer in public health. She holds a PhD in Food and Nutritional Sciences and specialises in nutrition support for older people, culturally inclusive nutrition, cardiometabolic health, and women’s wellbeing. She has been featured in outlets such as BBC Food, Daily Mail, Women’s Health UK, and The Conversation. Through her platform @taitalksnutrition, Dr Tai empowers thousands to make informed, joyful food choices that honour their health, heritage, and lifestyle.

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