When it comes to eating healthily, we're always looking for shortcuts. Let's face it, nobody wants to choose carrot sticks over a bar of chocolate, and living by the everything in moderation rule is the best way to maintain a healthy weight without giving up your favourite treats.
With so many interesting new snacks becoming available all the time, there's never been a better time to experiment with healthy foods. However, chocolate is one of those things that few people want to give up - so it's only natural to search for healthy ways to enjoy the UK's favourite treat.
Chocolate raisins are often seen as healthy snacks because they're mainly fruit - with a chocolate coating. But are chocolate raisins healthy? Let's find out.
What Are Raisins?
It might surprise you to learn that raisins are made by drying grapes which happens naturally in the sun or through a dehydrator. They're popular as a snack on their own and make a frequent appearance in the following snacks, including:
- Cookies
- Cakes
- Hot Cross Buns
- Yoghurt
- Oatmeal
- Cereal
Like most fruits, raisins are high in sugar - but it's naturally occurring sugars instead of the artificial type you'll find in most treats.
The Nutritional Content of Raisins
Raisins are high in sugar, but you already know that. However, there's a big difference between drinking a can of coke and eating a bag of raisins.
Some sugars are fine in moderation, while others are just bad news - and raisins are one of those snacks that you can enjoy - as long as it's not every day!
Iron
Iron is essential to create red blood cells and transport oxygen around the body - and most people get their iron intake from meat or supplements. Half a cup of raisins provides around 16% of the recommended daily iron intake for men and 7% for women.
If you're vegetarian or trying to cut down on your meat intake, raisins can be effective - especially if you hate taking supplements.
Fibre
Fibre stops constipation by softening your stools and making it easier for them to pass through your system effectively - but most people don't get their daily recommended fibre intake.
On average, half a cup of raisins will provide up to 24% of your recommended intake, depending on gender and age restrictions.
It's also important to mention that adding fibre to your diet can help you lose weight because it fills you up and stops you from overeating - so a small cup of raisins can make a big difference.
Calcium
Calcium is essential to prevent osteoporosis, and it also protects your teeth. Postmenopausal women will especially benefit from calcium because as you age, your bones get weaker, which negatively affects women.
Raisins also contain plenty of antioxidants and are generally a great addition to your diet. Of course, there are some adverse effects if you eat too many, but most people recognise that raisins are ideal for keeping your weight down and avoiding junk food.
So, What About Chocolate Covered Raisins?
OK, chocolate's been given a bit of a bad rep over the years, but few people don't enjoy their favourite bar of the sweet stuff. There are so many brands to choose between, including Galaxy and Dairy Milk.
While some people might believe that giving up chocolate is the best way to be healthy, eating it in moderation means that you're less likely to binge and can maintain your weight.
So, chocolate covered raisins are among the more popular snacks around, and they're particularly loved because people believe they're a healthy alternative to traditional chocolate bars.
Is that true?
Chocolate in itself isn't considered to be a healthy snack, but it's a treat that isn't as harmful as many would believe.
Dark Chocolate is Healthier Than Milk Chocolate
It's common knowledge that dark chocolate is better for you than milk chocolate because it contains more cocoa solids and less sugar. Most people know that choosing dark chocolate is the healthier option, and it's high in the following nutrients:
- Copper
- Iron
- Zinc
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
Dark chocolate contains around 50 to 90% cocoa solids, and milk chocolate contains 30% at the most; it offers more health benefits - but some people can find it difficult to tolerate.
Dark chocolate is extremely strong, and if you're used to milk chocolate, you might find it's too bitter for your tastebuds.
Raisins are naturally sweet, so they're great with dark chocolate because both complement each other perfectly.
Is Milk Chocolate Healthy?
One significant benefit of milk chocolate is its high calcium content. Brands like Dairy Milk certainly deliver a healthy dose of milk for each bar, and while this means the fat content is naturally higher, milk chocolate isn't bad as long as you enjoy it in moderation.
There are other health benefits of milk chocolate, including its micronutrients and antioxidants.
Micronutrients
Milk chocolate contains small amounts of potassium, iron, Vitamin A and Vitamin K. While it doesn't have an exceptionally high amount of each, there are still some health benefits, which people often forget about.
Can I Enjoy Milk Chocolate Raisins?
Yes, you can enjoy milk chocolate raisins. Dark chocolate isn't everyone's cup of tea, and if you find it tastes too strong, it's OK to enjoy milk chocolate in moderation. Ultimately, chocolate is like most foods; it's both good and bad for you.
Finding the right balance ensures you can enjoy your favourite chocolate treats for years to come. At Appleton Sweets, we stock wholesale chocolate raisins available in both dark and milk chocolate forms.
If you're searching for great deals on chocolate covered raisins and fruits, we're confident you'll be satisfied with our prices and speedy delivery times.
You can also catch up with our blog, which includes tips, tricks and everything related to the confectionery industry.
Christmas is fast approaching, and it's time to get your thinking cap on and find some impressive gifts for your loved ones. If you're looking for something special, why not read our post on chocolate gift jars and create your own presents?
Check out the guide here and stay tuned for our latest posts.