70% dark chocolate
CARBS
13g
PROTEINS
2.2g
FATS
12g
Quantity: 30g
Glycemic Index: 23
Glycemic Load: 3
Fiber: 3.1g
Key Nutrients: Magnesium, Iron, Copper, Manganese, Flavonoids
Health Impact: Due to its lower carb content and higher fat, 70% dark chocolate has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels compared to sweeter chocolates.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Consider a smaller bolus due to the low glycemic load and delayed digestion from fat content.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Almonds – Adding almonds can provide a good source of healthy fats and protein, which help in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
- Cheese – Pairing with cheese adds protein and fat, slowing down any potential sugar spikes from the chocolate.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Smoked salmon – The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
- Grilled chicken – Lean protein like chicken helps to balance meals, keeping you fuller for longer and stabilizing blood glucose levels.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- 85% dark chocolate – Higher cocoa content means less sugar, providing a richer flavor with fewer carbs.
- Cocoa nibs – Pure form of chocolate without added sugars, offering intense chocolate flavor and added crunch.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as dark chocolate contains relatively low amounts of sugar and carbs.
- 30–60 min: Slight increase in blood sugar due to the sugar content, but moderated by the high fat content.
- 2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels should stabilize due to the low carb content and presence of fats which slow down the absorption of sugars.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Consume in moderation and pair with a source of protein or healthy fat to further slow glucose absorption.
🤔 FAQs about 70% dark chocolate
How much dark chocolate can I eat if I have diabetes?
Moderation is key. Limit yourself to a small square or two (about 1 ounce) to satisfy your craving without significantly impacting your blood sugar.
Is dark chocolate healthy for people with diabetes?
Dark chocolate can be part of a diabetes-friendly diet if consumed in moderation. It contains antioxidants and can have a minimal impact on blood sugar when chosen correctly (at least 70% cocoa).
Have a question about 70% dark chocolate or any other topic related to diabetes?
From the blog
Empowering the diabetes community with expert insights, support, and resources.