Dark vs. milk chocolate: Here’s what to gift your valentine on February 14 | Health News

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and no celebration is complete without something sweet. So, if you plan to surprise your valentine with a box of chocolate, this one’s for you. Today, we tell you which is a better pick between milk and dark chocolate. After all, what is a better expression of love than showing you care about their health?
Milk vs dark chocolate
According to Edwina Raj, head of services – clinical nutrition and dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, dark chocolate is generally considered a healthier option than milk chocolate.
“A 100-gram bar of dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa is rich in nutrients, including 11 grams of fiber, 12 mg of iron, 250 mg of magnesium, 1.7 mg of copper, and 1.9 mg of manganese. It also contains significant amounts of potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium,” she said.
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Adding, Dr Fayaz, consultant, internal medicine, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, said that dark chocolate enhances brain function increasing blood flow to the brain and potential mood elevation through the release of endorphins. “It lowers bad cholesterol and blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease. Additionally, dark chocolate may help improve insulin sensitivity and lessen the risk of diabetes,” he told .
Go for chocolate with minimum 70% cocoa content (Source: Freepik)
Downsides of dark and milk chocolate
However, Dr Fayaz pointed out that dark chocolate contains caffeine, which can lead to sleep durbances and jitteriness, if consumed in large amounts. “Excessive intake can also lead to weight gain due to its calorie and fat content. It may also cause gastrointestinal issues like bloating and constipation in some individuals,” said Dr Fayaz.
White or milk chocolate, made from cocoa butter, sugar, and milk solids, on the other hand, is milder. However, it is high in sugar and saturated fat, highly processed, and does not contain the beneficial compounds found in cocoa solids. “Therefore, its nutritional value is low compared to dark chocolate and is not advisable for those watching their weight or trying to follow a balanced diet,” said Raj.

To maximize health benefits, she suggested being mindful of the quality of the chocolate, as these nutrients often come with considerable amounts of sugar, as well as hydrogenated fat which can increase bad cholesterol.Story continues below this ad
The ideal amount of dark chocolate to consume is about 1-2 ounces (30-60 grams) per day. “This quantity allows you to enjoy the health benefits without overindulging. It’s best to consume it as part of a balanced diet, along with other nutritious foods, and ensuring you maintain overall caloric intake within healthy limits,” he said.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.