Craving Chocolate? Here’s Why That’s More Than Okay (And What Kind to Choose)

Updated 05/29/25

If you’ve ever felt guilty for loving chocolate, it’s time for a reframe. Chocolate cravings are nothing to be ashamed of—and depending on the kind you reach for, your body might actually be asking for something it needs.

In this post, we’ll explore:

• The difference between cacao and cocoa

• Nutritional benefits of cacao

• Why chocolate cravings are totally normal

• How to choose chocolate that supports your health, the planet, and farming communities

• A simple, satisfying cacao dessert you can make at home

Let’s dig into this bittersweet delight—and finally leave chocolate shame behind.

Wait—Isn’t Cacao Just a Fancy Way to Spell Cocoa?

Nope. While they come from the same bean, cacao and cocoa are processed very differently—and that makes a big impact on both nutrition and flavor.

Cacao (pronounced ka-KOW) is the raw or minimally processed form of the cacao bean. It’s typically fermented and either cold-pressed into powder or broken into nibs, preserving much of its nutrient content.

Cocoa, on the other hand, is made from cacao that’s been roasted at high temperatures—sometimes with added alkali (Dutch processing) to reduce bitterness and darken the color. This heating process significantly reduces its antioxidant and mineral levels.

Put simply: cacao keeps more of the good stuff. Cocoa is delicious, but it’s less nutrient-dense.

Why Chocolate Cravings Aren’t Just in Your Head

Contrary to the old “willpower” narrative, cravings are often rooted in physiology. Your body might be signaling a need for specific nutrients, a desire for energy, or simply comfort.

Craving chocolate? You might be low in one of the many beneficial compounds found in cacao, including:

🌿 Magnesium

Cacao is one of the richest plant sources of magnesium—a mineral many folks are low in. Magnesium supports muscle relaxation, energy production, bone health, and a regulated nervous system.

🍓 Iron

Cacao contains more iron per 100g than spinach! That’s especially helpful for anyone experiencing blood loss (due to menstruation, childbirth, or surgery), or who follows a plant-based diet. Pairing cacao with a source of vitamin C (like berries) helps boost absorption.

🧠 Feel-Good Compounds

Cacao naturally contains tryptophan, tyrosine, serotonin, dopamine, and phenylethylamine (PEA)—neurotransmitters associated with pleasure, connection, and mental wellbeing. These compounds may help explain why chocolate can feel so comforting.

❤️ Antioxidants

Raw cacao contains 40x more antioxidants than blueberries! These powerful flavanols can support heart health, brain function, and skin resilience, while protecting against oxidative stress.

💪 Other Nutrients

Cacao is also a source of calcium, potassium, zinc, manganese, copper, and B vitamins—all of which play a role in energy production, immune support, and cellular repair.

Not All Chocolate Is Created Equal (Ethics Matter)

Chocolate is a global industry, but its roots are deeply entwined with colonialism, labor exploitation, and environmental harm. Over 70% of the world’s cacao comes from West Africa, where child labor and poverty wages remain widespread.

Here’s how you can make more ethical, sustainable chocolate choices:

✅ Look for Certifications Like:

• Fair Trade or Fair for Life: Ensures fair wages and working conditions for farmers.

• Direct Trade: Involves a direct relationship between buyers and growers—often with greater transparency and impact.

• Organic and Non-GMO: Reduces chemical use and supports healthier farming ecosystems.

• Rainforest Alliance Certified: Supports biodiversity and forest conservation.

🛒 Some Chocolate Brands Doing Better (based on my research):

• Alter Eco

• Theo Chocolate

• Tony’s Chocolonely

• Raaka

• Taza Chocolate

• Divine Chocolate

• Endangered Species Chocolate

• Equal Exchange

• Wildly Organic

• Dandelion Chocolate

A Creamy, Plant-Based Chocolate Pudding (With Benefits)

This pudding is velvety, nutrient-packed, and comes together in minutes. It’s naturally sweetened and contains heart- and brain-loving fats from avocado and cacao.

✨ 3-Minute Cacao Avocado Pudding

Ingredients (2 servings):

• 1 ripe avocado

• 1 small banana (ripe)

• 3–4 soft pitted dates or 1–2 tbsp maple syrup

• ¼ cup full-fat coconut milk (or oat/flax milk)

• 2 heaping tbsp raw cacao powder

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon or maca powder for added warmth

Instructions:

1. If using dates, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes first.

2. Blend all ingredients until silky smooth, adding a splash more milk if needed.

3. Taste and adjust sweetness.

4. Chill for 15–30 minutes or enjoy immediately.

Topping ideas: Raspberries, cacao nibs, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of nut butter.

The Bottom Line

Craving chocolate doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you. In fact, it might mean your body is wise enough to ask for what it needs—nutritionally, emotionally, or both.

By choosing chocolate made with cacao (not heavily processed cocoa), and supporting ethical brands, you can feel good about enjoying it—for yourself, the planet, and others.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or lifestyle. Some content may have been created or refined with the help of AI and is reviewed by a qualified nutrition professional.