Is Bitter or Baking Chocolate Keto-Friendly?
As the ketogenic diet grows in popularity, many are left questioning where popular kitchen staples fit into this high-fat, low-carb plan. Today, we're plunging into the world of chocolate – specifically, Bitter and Baking chocolate. These dark delights are a sweet spot in many pantry cupboards, but the true question hangs in the air: Are bitter and baking chocolate keto-friendly?
Understanding the Keto Diet
Before we get into the details of bitter and baking chocolate, it's important to grasp the main concepts of the ketogenic diet. This diet mostly emphasizes high fat intake (accounting for around 70-80% of daily calories), moderate protein, and very low carbohydrate consumption (usually less than 50 grams of net carbs per day). The objective? To send your body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat as its primary energy source rather than carbohydrates.
Nutritional InformationPer (1 oz (28.35g)):
Per 100g:
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Bitter or Baking Chocolate is somewhat keto-friendly. It can be included in a keto diet in moderation. |
Bitter chocolate, often found in baking squares or bars, is chocolate in its simplest form. It’s made from cocoa beans and contains little to no added sugar, making for a rich, strong flavor.
When it comes to its macronutrients, a one-ounce serving of unsweetened baking chocolate contains approximately 12-14g of carbs, placing it on the higher side for a keto diet. While it's not necessarily off-limits, it should be consumed sparingly if you're aiming to maintain ketosis.
In terms of micronutrients, bitter chocolate is a surprisingly good source of iron, manganese, magnesium and zinc. It even boasts small amounts of dietary fiber and protein. This means that in moderation, it can be part of a balanced, ketogenic diet.
Now, baking chocolate may not be your typical 'sweet treat', but it can serve as a great base for several keto-friendly desserts. By adding a low-carb sweetener, like stevia or erythritol, you can transform this high-cocoa chocolate into something that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your low-carb goals.
