When one is pregnant, especially for the first time, there may be many questions about what is appropriate for the body – including food intake. In fact, one of the popular questions many mothers-to-be ask is if it is safe to consume a pregnancy chocolate.
The good news is — it is! Given the long list of foods pregnant women are advised to avoid, this news is highly welcomed by many, especially chocolate lovers.
Benefits of consuming a pregnancy chocolate
A pregnancy chocolate is safe for consumption in moderation, and can even be beneficial!
Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, contains flavonoids, which is a naturally-occurring compound that is rich in antioxidants. Many foods such as vegetables, berries, red wine, and green tea contain flavonoids.
Flavonoids are known for lowering the risk for preeclampsia. This occurs when blood pressure is elevated and there are high levels of protein in urine, causing stress on organs.
Chocolate consumption in first trimester and third trimesters is associated with lower risk of preeclampsia. Flavonoids also lowers the risk of gestational hypertension while improving blood flow to the fetus, promoting development and growth of the baby.
With these various health benefits to consuming chocolate, it is recommended to consume dark chocolate over the other types, in order to consume lower amounts of sugar while reaping the most health benefits of chocolate.
Precautions to take when consuming a pregnancy chocolate
While there are numerous benefits to consuming chocolate during pregnancy, it is essential to consume it in moderation. As with other types of candy, over-consumption can lead to adverse health effects instead.
Sugar
Many doctors will advise mothers-to-be to keep a close lookout on their sugar and caffeine intake for good reason. Consuming excessive calories and added sugar can lead to negative health outcomes such as increased gestational weight gain, diabetes, or pre-term birth.
Caffeine
Chocolate contains caffeine, and this has been raised as a concern for many parents. Too much caffeine has been linked to miscarriage risks, and it is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) to consume 200 milligrams or less of caffeine per day.
Additionally, the type of chocolate consumed matters when it pertains to caffeine during pregnancy. Dark chocolate, despite being the recommended type of pregnancy chocolate, should be consumed in moderation as it contains triple the amount of caffeine in milk chocolate.
Overall, as long as you moderate your consumption of pregnancy chocolate will not have adverse effects on you or your baby’s health.
Recommendations for eating a pregnancy chocolate
Now that you know a little more about chocolate consumption during pregnancy, you may be wondering what is an appropriate “moderate” amount to consume.
A good rule of thumb is that 30g of chocolate per day may be beneficial to the health, while avoiding the above listed harmful effects of over-consumption.
This has been proven via a research study to benefit fetal growth and development, improving placental function, and reducing risk of preeclampsia.
10 best recommended dark pregnancy chocolate brands
Now that you are more familiar with the risks and benefits of chocolate consumption, here are 5 best recommended brands of dark pregnancy chocolate!
Skinny’s dark pregnancy chocolate is termed skinny precisely due to it’s low carb-content, helping mothers avoid increased gestational weight gain. With a serving size of 45g and total fat of 16.26g, it is a healthier, halal option, perfect for satisfying cravings of all soon-to-be mothers.
Price: $4.91
Where to Buy: Shopee
Lindt is a well-known global chocolate brand, and their dark chocolate bar lives up to expectations. It is a full-bodied bar, boasting of the perfect balance of bitter without being overpowering, and has the roasted aroma of coffee and wood, making for a perfect, staple dark pregnancy chocolate bar.
Price: $9.80
Where to Buy: Shopee
This ChocZero Keto chocolate is perfect not just for mothers, but for those looking to go on a keto diet as well. Their pregnancy chocolate squares are sweetened with all natural monk fruit instead of sugar or unhealthy artificial sweeteners, and are packaged in bite-sized packets to provide portion control. This makes for the perfect choice for mothers concerned over over-consumption of pregnancy chocolate.
Price: $12.90 – $19.90
Where to Buy: Shopee
For mothers who prefer non-pure chocolate, Brookside’s dark chocolate is fruit-infused, with various flavours – acai and blueberry, goji berries, and pomegranate. This lowers the percentage of cocoa, making it a lighter side of dark chocolate, elevating snack mixes.
Price: $13.02
Where to Buy: Shopee
Benns’ 99.9% dark pregnancy chocolate is as its name suggests – an extremely rich and dark chocolate with high percentage and content of cocoa. Despite so, it is not too bitter and 100% vegan with zero vegetable fat, making it an ideal pregnancy chocolate choice for vegans as well as those seeking a rich chocolate flavour.
Price: $4.35 – $11.45
Where to Buy: Shopee
Green & Black’s Organic Dark Chocolate is a great treat for pregnant mums because it’s made with certified organic ingredients and contains no artificial additives. Its rich cocoa content offers antioxidants that may support heart health and improve circulation. The natural sweetness helps satisfy cravings without overwhelming sugar levels. Plus, it’s ethically sourced, so you can indulge with peace of mind.
Price: $6.90
Where to Buy: Cold Storage
Ferrero Rondnoir Dark Chocolates and Ferrero Collection Assorted Confections are popular options available in Singapore that can be enjoyed during pregnancy when consumed in moderation. These chocolates are known for their quality and taste, making them suitable for satisfying occasional sweet cravings.
Price: $11.43
Where to Buy: Lazada
Love Cocoa Organic Milk Chocolate is a delightful and thoughtful choice for expectant mothers seeking a safe indulgence during pregnancy. Crafted with organic, fair-trade ingredients, this chocolate is free from palm oil and unnecessary additives, aligning with a cleaner diet. Its moderate cocoa content (approximately 37%) ensures lower caffeine levels, making it suitable for those monitoring their intake.
Price: $9.98
Where to Buy: Amazon
Alter Eco Americas Organic Chocolate Bar – Dark Salted Almonds is a delightful choice for expectant mothers seeking a wholesome treat during pregnancy. Crafted with organic, fair-trade ingredients, this chocolate bar combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the crunch of salted almonds, offering both taste and nutritional benefits.
Price: $15.90
Where to Buy: Lazada
Hershey’s Special Dark Mildly Sweet Chocolate is a popular choice among dark chocolate enthusiasts, offering a balance between rich cocoa flavor and mild sweetness. With a cocoa content of approximately 45%, it provides a less bitter taste compared to higher-percentage dark chocolates, making it appealing to a broad audience.
Price: $16.60
Where to Buy: Lazada
Chocolates can alleviate the mood of pregnant women and it is perfect if paired with a good tea. Check out: Best Morning Sickness Tea in Singapore: Cure Nausea, Cramps, Headaches, and More with These Picks
