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Everything you Need to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy and Chocolates

Welcome to Nogih Chocolates: Your Vegan Chocolate Experts

At Nogih Chocolates, we’re passionate about crafting exquisite vegan chocolates and spreads. With years of experience, we’re your trusted source for plant-based indulgence.

Pregnancy is a unique journey, and we understand the importance of making informed dietary choices. We’re here to help you discover how our vegan chocolates can be a delightful and nutritious part of your pregnancy diet. Explore our range and learn about the sweet relationship between pregnancy and chocolates.

Thank you for choosing Nogih Chocolates – where vegan goodness meets healthy living.

Is Chocolate Safe During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, many expectant mothers may wonder whether it’s safe to indulge in their Favourite treats, including chocolate. The good news is that in moderation, chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, can be enjoyed during pregnancy without major concerns. Let’s delve into the details.

Safety of Consuming Chocolate

Chocolate contains a natural compound called theobromine, which is a mild stimulant similar to caffeine. While it’s present in chocolate, the levels are generally much lower than caffeine found in coffee or tea.

Consuming moderate amounts of chocolate during pregnancy is usually considered safe. However, it’s essential to keep your intake in check to avoid excessive caffeine intake, which can potentially lead to issues such as sleep disturbances and increased heart rate.

Vegan chocolates, in particular, can be a great choice for expectant mothers as they are often lower in saturated fats and dairy content, making them a healthier option.

Nogih - Safety of Consuming Chocolate

Benefits of Dark Chocolate During Pregnancy:

Dark chocolate, in particular, offers a range of potential benefits for pregnant women. Here are some of them:

Rich in Antioxidants: Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants, including flavonoids, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body.
These antioxidants are known to promote overall health and may play a role in supporting a healthy pregnancy.

Mood Enhancement: Pregnancy can come with mood swings and stress. Dark chocolate contains compounds that may promote the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones, which can help improve mood and reduce stress levels.

Source of Iron: Iron is essential during pregnancy to support the increased blood volume and the development of the baby. Dark chocolate contains a small amount of iron, making it a tasty way to supplement your iron intake.

Magnesium Content: Magnesium is crucial for muscle and nerve function, and it also helps regulate blood sugar levels. Dark chocolate contains a reasonable amount of magnesium, which can be beneficial during pregnancy.

Nogih - Chocolate That Can Fuel Your Workout - Dark Chocolate
Nogih - Milk Chocolate
Nogih - White Chocolate

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is a type of chocolate distinguished by its elevated cocoa content and minimal inclusion of sugars, containing cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and sugar, with limited or no addition of milk or milk solids. The percentage of cocoa solids can vary, often denoted on packaging as 70%, 80%, or higher, indicating the proportion of cocoa in the chocolate. Renowned for its intense and rich flavour, dark chocolate appeals to those seeking a more robust and complex taste profile.

Milk Chocolate

Milk chocolate is a variety of chocolate characterised by its balanced combination of cocoa solids, cocoa butter, sugar, and the addition of milk or milk solids. Unlike dark chocolate, which emphasises higher cocoa content, milk chocolate is known for its sweeter taste and creamier texture. The inclusion of milk lends a milder flavour profile and a smoother consistency to the chocolate. Typically, milk chocolate contains around 10-50% cocoa solids, with the rest comprised of sugar and milk components.

White Chocolate

White chocolate is a distinct type of chocolate characterised by the absence of cocoa solids and its primary ingredients being cocoa butter, sugar, and milk solids. Unlike dark and milk chocolate, it does not contain cocoa solids, giving it a pale, ivory color. The key flavour components in white chocolate are derived from the cocoa butter and the sweetness from the sugar and milk solids. With a smooth and creamy texture, white chocolate is appreciated for its indulgent and sweet taste.

Consumption Levels

While dark chocolate has its perks, it’s crucial to consume it in moderation. Excessive consumption of chocolate, or any other caffeinated product, should be avoided during pregnancy. To strike the right balance, you should choose high-quality chocolate that is, ideally, low in sugar. Caffeine is a stimulant that can harm the fetus, so pregnant women should not consume more than 20g per day in total. 100g of dark chocolate contains about 8g of caffeine, so enjoy it in moderation and don’t drink too much coffee.

Healthy grab-and-go snack for every busy mum-to-be!

Chocolate During a Plant-Based diet during Pregnancy

A plant-based diet during pregnancy can provide numerous health benefits for both the mother and the developing baby. One common concern for expectant mothers is whether they can still enjoy chocolate while following a plant-based lifestyle. The answer is a resounding “yes!” Chocolate can certainly be part of a plant-based pregnancy diet, but it’s essential to make mindful choices.

Choosing Plant-Based Chocolate:

When indulging in chocolate during pregnancy while following a plant-based diet, consider opting for vegan or plant-based chocolate options.
These chocolates are free from dairy, making them a suitable choice for those avoiding animal products. Here’s why plant-based chocolate can be a great addition to your pregnancy diet:

1. Dairy-Free Goodness: Plant-based chocolates are crafted without any dairy-derived ingredients like milk powder or butter. Instead, they use plant-based alternatives such as almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk to achieve the same creamy and luscious texture.

2. Ethical and Sustainable: Choosing plant-based chocolate aligns with ethical and sustainable principles, as it avoids supporting the dairy industry, which can have environmental and animal welfare concerns.

3. Lower Saturated Fat: Some plant-based chocolates may contain lower levels of saturated fats compared to conventional chocolate, which can be a heart-healthy choice during pregnancy.

4. Allergen-Friendly: Plant-based chocolates are suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, making them a safe option for pregnant women who may have dietary restrictions.

5. Vegan Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate, in particular, is a popular choice among plant-based eaters. It’s rich in antioxidants, iron, and magnesium, offering potential health benefits during pregnancy.

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Common FAQs

"Can I eat chocolate when pregnant?"

The benefits that chocolate provides depend on the percentage of cocoa that it contains, so the darker the chocolate, the more it will benefit both the mother and child. You don’t have to completely avoid milk chocolate when pregnant, but it’s less suitable as it’s higher in sugar.

Researchers at Yale University have shown that eating chocolate reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia by almost 70% due to the theobromine contained in cocoa, which has diuretic, cardiotonic and vasodilatory effects.

For this reason, we recommend eating around 30g of dark chocolate from the first trimester onwards to improve circulation and reduce blood pressure. In addition, chocolate improves mood and reduces stress by increasing levels of endorphins and serotonin in the brain.

It should also be remembered that dark chocolate is high in iron and magnesium. Iron is essential for maintaining hemoglobin levels during pregnancy and magnesium helps metabolize fatty acids.

Pregnant individuals should be cautious about chocolates with high caffeine content, such as certain dark chocolates. Additionally, it’s advisable to avoid chocolates with added ingredients that may pose a risk, such as alcohol-filled chocolates. Always check labels and choose chocolates from reputable sources.

The benefits that chocolate provides depend on the percentage of cocoa that it contains, so the darker the chocolate, the more it will benefit both the mother and child. You don’t have to completely avoid milk chocolate when pregnant, but it’s less suitable as it’s higher in sugar.

Researchers at Yale University have shown that eating chocolate reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia by almost 70% due to the theobromine contained in cocoa, which has diuretic, cardiotonic and vasodilatory effects.

For this reason, we recommend eating around 30g of dark chocolate from the first trimester onwards to improve circulation and reduce blood pressure. In addition, chocolate improves mood and reduces stress by increasing levels of endorphins and serotonin in the brain.

It should also be remembered that dark chocolate is high in iron and magnesium. Iron is essential for maintaining hemoglobin levels during pregnancy and magnesium helps metabolize fatty acids.

In moderation, chocolate is generally safe during pregnancy. However, excessive consumption may contribute to weight gain and other potential health issues. Some chocolates, especially those with high caffeine content, can impact sleep. Always be mindful of your overall diet and consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns or conditions.

Tips for Choosing the Best
Vegan Chocolates

Choosing the best vegan chocolates can be a delightful experience, and it allows you to enjoy your Favourite treat while staying true to your plant-based lifestyle. To ensure you make the most satisfying and ethical choices, consider the following tips:

Nogih - Check the ingredients
1. Check the ingredients
Always read the ingredient list carefully. Vegan chocolates should not contain any dairy-derived ingredients, such as milk powder, butter, or whey. Look for chocolates that explicitly state “vegan” on the packaging.
2. Cocoa Content Matters

Pay attention to the cocoa content percentage.
Higher cocoa percentages often mean less sugar and a richer, more intense chocolate flavour. For a healthier option, consider chocolates with 70% cocoa content or higher.

Nogih - Cocoa Content Matters
Nogih - Ethical Certifications
3. Ethical Certifications
Look for ethical certifications such as Fair Trade or Rainforest Alliance. These certifications indicate that the chocolate is produced sustainably and that the farmers receive fair wages.
4. Minimal Additives
Choose chocolates with minimal additives and preservatives. The best vegan chocolates have a simple ingredient list, usually consisting of cocoa mass, cocoa butter, and sweeteners.
Nogih - Minimal Additives
Nogih - Be Mindful of Allergens
5. Be Mindful of Allergens

If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, check for potential allergens such as nuts, soy, or gluten in the ingredient list. Some vegan chocolates may contain these allergens, so it’s essential to verify.

6. Consider Sweeteners

Be aware of the sweeteners used in vegan chocolates. Many vegan chocolates use plant-based sweeteners like cane sugar, coconut sugar, or agave nectar. Some chocolates may use alternative sweeteners like stevia or erythritol for a lower-calorie option.

Nogih - Consider Sweeteners
Nogih - Support Vegan Brands
7. Support Vegan Brands

Consider supporting brands that specialise in vegan chocolates. These brands are more likely to have a wide variety of vegan options and a commitment to ethical and sustainable production.

8. Online Resources
Explore online resources and reviews to discover popular vegan chocolate brands and recommendations from the vegan community. Websites and forums often share valuable insights and recommendations
Nogih - Online Resources

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