# Hot Chocolate / Cocoa: Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load & Nutritional Information
Are you a hot chocolate lover wondering about its impact on your blood sugar? In this post, we’ll explore the glycemic index, glycemic load, and nutritional profile of hot chocolate (dry mix made with water) to help you make informed dietary choices.
## What is the Glycemic Index of Hot Chocolate?
Hot chocolate made from dry mix and water has a Glycemic Index (GI) of 37.5, which places it in the low glycemic index category. Foods with a GI below 55 are considered low GI, meaning they cause a slower rise in blood glucose levels compared to high GI foods.
## Glycemic Load of Hot Chocolate
The Glycemic Load (GL) of hot chocolate is 4.05 per 100g serving. This is considered a low glycemic load (under 10), which indicates that a typical serving won’t significantly impact blood sugar levels for most people.
## Nutritional Profile of Hot Chocolate (Dry Mix Made with Water)
### Macronutrients (per 100g serving):
- Calories: 54
- Protein: 0.9g
- Fat: 0.54g
- Total Carbohydrates: 11.3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 8.82g
- Net Carbs: 10.8g
## Is Hot Chocolate Good for a Low-GI Diet?
With its low glycemic index of 37.5 and glycemic load of 4.05, hot chocolate made with water can be included in a low-GI diet in moderation. It’s important to note that most of the carbohydrate content comes from sugar (8.82g out of 11.3g total carbs), so those watching their sugar intake should be mindful of portion sizes.
## Health Considerations
While hot chocolate has a relatively low impact on blood sugar levels, be aware that:
- The nutritional profile above is for hot chocolate made with water. Adding milk or cream will change both the GI and nutritional content.
- Commercial mixes often contain added sugars and additives.
- Homemade versions using dark cocoa powder and a natural sweetener might offer better nutritional benefits.
## Bottom Line
Hot chocolate made with water from dry mix can be enjoyed as an occasional treat in a balanced diet, even for those monitoring their blood sugar levels. Its low GI and GL values make it a better choice than many other sweet beverages, but it’s still important to consider the sugar content and overall carbohydrate intake within your daily nutritional goals.
Do you have questions about the glycemic index of other foods? Let us know in the comments below!