Giving in to a chocolate craving doesn’t have to sabotage your weight-loss efforts. In fact, enjoying chocolate in moderation, especially antioxidant-rich dark chocolate, has been linked to better moods, decreased stroke risk, and improved heart health.
The next time a chocolate craving strikes you, try one of these lower calorie chocolate treats.
Dark chocolate
2 squares = ~140 calories
Be sure to check the label so you don’t over-indulge.
To reap the health benefits of chocolate, choose dark varieties. The health benefits are greater with a higher the cocoa content.
Choose types with at least 65% cacao.
Emerald Cocoa-Roasted Almonds
1 oz = 150 calories or 100 calorie packs
Light chocolate soy milk
1 cup = 90 calories
No-sugar-added chocolate pudding
4 oz = 60-70 calories, depending on brand
Skinny cow fudge bar
1 bar = 100 calories
Special K chocolately delight cereal
¾ cup + ½ cup skim milk = 160 calories
Kashi dark chocolate coconut bar
1 bar = 120 calories
Chocolate graham crackers
2 whole crackers = 130 calories
Homemade hot chocolate
1 cup = 100 calories
Put 1 Tbsp cocoa powder into a mug.
Heat 1 cup of skim milk in microwave for 1-1/2 minutes or until hot.
Gradually add hot milk to cocoa in mug, stirring until well blended.
Stir in ¼ tsp vanilla extract and 1-2 packets of sugar substitute, or to taste.