Why drinking hot chocolate is actually good for you
Words by Alanya Smith
Photos: Getty
White, milk, or dark. Original, spiced, mint, or ginger. Whole milk, almond, oat, or soya. The combinations of how you make your hot chocolate are endless, with a new flavour profile of the classic drink developing every day by highly crafted chocolatiers. But despite being the perfect go-to treat comforting drink, experts are saying that the beverage is packed with hidden health benefits than you may have realised.
What’s in a cup of hot chocolate?
Every mug of hot chocolate can comprise different spice blends or tasting notes, but there are some ingredients you’ll find in every cup.
‘For us at Whittard, it always starts with quality ingredients,’ shares Kate Shields, flavoured drinks buyer at Whittard. ‘The cocoa powder in our milk and dark hot chocolates focuses on rich cocoa, whereas our white hot chocolate is all about creamy cocoa butter.
‘Adding ingredients such as salt or spice can enhance the cocoa drink to your personal preference. To create the perfect hot chocolate, we suggest using milk or a plant-based alternative rather than water, to enhance the creaminess.’
How can hot chocolate improve our mental health?
Every cup of oozing gooey chocolate delivers a nostalgia hit that can take you back to your childhood. ‘Hot chocolate is one of those drinks that just feels like a hug in a mug,’ shares Sanjay Aggarwal, cofounder and chief spice officer at Spice Kitchen.
’It takes you straight back to childhood, hands wrapped around a warm cup after coming in from the cold. There is something really nostalgic about it, and that ritual of slowing down and enjoying a sweet, creamy drink is incredibly comforting.’
Kate agrees that a good cup of hot chocolate can be the perfect treat to reward yourself with: ‘There is something special about the ritual of making a hot chocolate, taking the time to select your favourite blend, and enjoying the taste of your first sip.
‘Whether it’s an individual moment of calm after a busy day, or a shared togetherness with friends and family, hot chocolate has a way of bringing comfort and connection.’
5 health benefits from drinking hot chocolate
1. It promotes mindfulness
Sometimes, the smallest of acts to check in with our body and mental health can be exactly what we need to take a pause in the rush of our daily rituals.
‘Turning hot chocolate into a ritual rather than a rushed drink makes it a powerful tool for mindfulness, explains Sarah Stannard, registered health coach and workplace wellbeing consultant.
‘Taking time to prepare it slowly, noticing the aromas, savouring the taste, and sitting without screens while drinking allows the body and mind to switch off. Even a few minutes of this daily can reduce stress and create a sense of calm. Little things like choosing a specific mug for the hot chocolate make it more special and like it's a real treat.’
2. Every cup is jam-packed with antioxidants
A quality cup of hot chocolate can be filled with antioxidants found in high-quality cocoa beans, including flavonoids. Flavonoids are nutrient-rich and typically found in fruits and vegetables to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. They’re also found in red wine, just in case you need another nutrient boost after your hot chocolate.
3. Your gut health is boosted
The high fibre content in cocoa is the perfect thing to encourage healthy digestion and discourage any uncomfortable bowel issues. When your gut is in the best shape, you’ll be more comfortable and confident to tackle the day ahead.
4. Heart health is protected
Cocoa contains polyphenols, another great antioxidant that has been found to improve your cardiac health. So, the next time someone offers you a hot chocolate, you know it really is good for your heart.
‘When made with quality ingredients such as raw cacao or dark chocolate, hot chocolate is rich in antioxidants called flavanols, which support heart health and circulation,’ says Sarah
‘It also provides magnesium, which aids relaxation, can help sleep and can also help regulate your mood and energy. Choosing plant milks, lighter sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, or adding spices such as cinnamon or turmeric can enhance both the flavour and the health benefits.’
5. Your mood is instantly improved
It’s no surprise that a sweet treat can be the perfect pick-me-up for an afternoon, but the science behind why we get so excited by it proves that it’s exactly what our mental health needs.
Sanjay adds: ‘Cacao naturally contains compounds that lift our mood. It helps the brain release serotonin and dopamine, those “feel good” neurotransmitters, and it is also rich in magnesium which is known for supporting relaxation.’
‘So, it is not just delicious, it really does give you a boost in body and mind. Add in the mindful pause of making and drinking it, and you have a simple ritual that supports wellbeing.’
How many cups can I have in a balanced diet?
Consuming any drink is only healthy in moderation. Otherwise, we’d all be enjoying the antioxidant qualities of a glass of red wine far more frequently.
For a healthy, balanced diet, try to follow the serving suggestions recommended to make sure that you’re not overindulging. Kate says: ‘I suggest about three heaped teaspoons of hot chocolate per 200ml of milk or milk alternative, gently heated and whisked until it’s silky smooth. For extra indulgence, add some finishing touches like a swirl of whipped cream, some chocolate shavings, or marshmallows.’
As long as you’re not turning to a high-calorie product with whole milk and high sugar every day, your hot chocolate shouldn’t harm you. If you want a healthier twist to the drink, natural sweeteners rather than added high-sugar syrups can be a great way to tackle hidden sugars in the drink. Swapping to plant-based milks like almond or oat can also be a sure way to get the same creamy flavour without the same level of saturated fats.
There’s a hot chocolate variety available for you to match with what you want in your flavour, milk or cocoa intensity preferences. Varying the flavours or ingredients in your cup can make each drink feel both comforting and refreshing.
‘At Spice Kitchen, we love creating blends that bring a bit of extra comfort,’ adds Sanjay on the variety of flavours to choose from. ‘Our Classic hot chocolate is all about pure nostalgia. Gingerbread is warming and cosy, especially as the nights draw in, and our Chai Spiced version has all those beautiful spices that make it feel a little more adventurous. All three are perfect for winter, depending on your mood.’
Where are the best places to buy hot chocolate?
Indulging yourself has never felt so good with the array of luxury hot chocolates available on the high street, with every flavour combination and intensity that you could ever crave. Here are some of Gathered’s top recommendations for where to grab your next cup:
1. Spice Kitchen – If you want to experience handcrafted spice blends to savour in every cup, the chai blend is not one to miss.
2. Whittard – If you want to try out a new flavour like peanut butter or white chocolate and raspberry, this is the site for you.
3. Knoops – There’s something for every milk, white and dark fan at Knoops, where you can decide the percentage of chocolate you want in every cup. We recommend the 80% for a rich, intense flavour.
4. Hotel Chocolat – Made by chocolatier experts, these hot chocolates are a velvety indulgence that is best served with their cocoa whipped cream.
5. Cadbury – For a comforting classic you can always turn to, this purple store-cupboard staple has been a timeless classic for a reason.
Read more:
