Mention chocolate and one would happily think about their favorite bar or sigh while remembering their best cup of hot choco.

Chocolate can boost our moods but diabetics are advised to avoid it because the high sugar content added to it will cause a spike in blood sugar levels.

Fortunately we now have healthier alternatives available in the market such as Chocolea.

Chocolea is made from single-origin chocolate sweetened by coconut sugar, both sourced from farmers in Mindanao, and is fortified with the healthiest ingredients coupled with Vitamins A, C, calcium and iron. According to Starkaffea Corporation, they have worked with scientists and nutritionists from the Food Nutrition Research Institute and the produced had to undergo a total of 50-trial formulation to ensure that it has the quality ingredients that best suit the Filipino taste buds. Chocolea is also Halal-certified plus FDA certified and approved.

Dr. Alberto T. Magpily from UP Collehe of Human Kinetics Sports Therapy Clinic also vouched for the wonderful benefits derived from Chocolea. He said that coconut sugar, which is rich in calcium and potassium, regulates blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

Cocoa powder contain antioxidants as well as compounds called flavanols that help reduce insulin sensitivity, improve blood sugar control and reduce inflammation. The combination of these two makes for a guilt-free and healthy indulgence!

My Musings

I tried Chocolea for breakfast today and prepared it with hot water. It didn’t have that lingering sugary aftertaste you’d usually get from other instant chocolate drinks. I also did not feel lethargic or sleep afterwards.

It comes in individual sachets, which is convenient when travelling. I will try it with soy milk and as a cold beverage next time.

Chocolea and other Starkaffea products are available in selected SM Supermarket and Hypermarket branches as well as on Shopee, Lazada and BeautyMNL. It is sold in packs of 10 sachets at P300.

INGREDIENTS: Non-dairy Creamer, Cocoa Powder, Coconut Sugar, Iodized Salt, Vitamin A, Cholecalciferol SD, Vitamin E and Vitamin C.

Shelf life: 12 months