When I look at the statement, “Is hot chocolate healthy,” I have to wonder how the media was able to find any health benefits of cocoa “hot”. Just a few weeks ago, on the news, I heard about the amazing health benefits of hot chocolate. A study was done from a university claiming that hot chocolate had more antioxidants than wine and tea. Now, not all hot chocolate, and I know what your thinking, is the same. For most of us, we tend to buy the more popular brands at our local food marts. Let’s look at the nutritional facts.
Ingredient label:
When looking at a couple of our more popular hot chocolates, the first ingredient was simply unhealthy sugar; the next ingredient was corn syrup, followed by processed cocoa; then, hydrogenated coconut oil. There isn’t a need to look at any other ingredients because the first few are very unhealthy. So, is hot chocolate healthy?
Nutritional Facts:
If we were to make our “healthy” hot chocolate with water, we consume 150 calories, 3g saturated fat, 170mg of sodium, and a whopping 18g of sugar. If we substituted 2% pasteurized 
milk for water our nutritional value declines. Our calories jump to 240 followed with 5g of saturated fat, 16mg cholesterol, 250mg sodium, and 27g of sugar. So, I guess I’m still looking for a health benefit of hot cocoa.
Making our own health benefits of cocoa “Hot”:
1. In the past, I talked about how every kitchen should have a soy milk maker. I have made outstanding raw milks from seeds, nuts, and beans (most notably being soy milk and almond milk).
2. I have also looked at the amazing health benefits of raw cacao powder and why dark chocolate isn’t the super food power house that we were led to believe. Considering that cacao is reputable for containing powerful antioxidants and notoriously referred to as the real super food, why not use it in making a healthy hot chocolate?
3. Every brand of hot chocolate requires sugar as a main ingredient since raw cacao powder is quite bitter. As a sugar, I suggest Medjool dates, which is a great natural sugar. Medjool dates contain significant amounts of potassium and dietary fiber. Another favorite sugar substitute of people is agave nector. I invite you to watch my video as I try to show that hot chocolate is healthy. United With Earth Medjool Dates, 16-Ounce Containers (Pack of 4)
Conclusion:
Do you think we can alter an old fashioned favorite beverage, such as hot chocolate, into a healthier cold weather drink? Can hot chocolate, actually, be healthy? Keeping in mind the idea that many health benefits originate from raw almonds, cacao powder and dates, we need to ask ourselves, “What are the health benefits of hot cocoa?”
Come Follow Us!