Chocolate Pudding: A Sweet Treat with Moderate Glycemic Impact

Chocolate pudding made from dry mix is a beloved dessert that satisfies sweet cravings while offering a relatively moderate glycemic impact compared to many other desserts. Let’s explore the nutritional profile and glycemic considerations of this classic comfort food.

Glycemic Index and Load

Chocolate pudding made from dry mix has a Glycemic Index (GI) of 44, placing it in the low-medium GI category. Foods with a GI under 55 are generally considered low glycemic options that cause a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels.

The Glycemic Load (GL) is 8.62 for a 100g serving, which falls in the moderate range. Glycemic Load takes into account both the quality (GI) and quantity of carbohydrates, providing a more complete picture of how a food affects blood glucose levels.

Nutritional Breakdown

A 100g serving of chocolate pudding made from dry mix contains:

• Calories: 113
• Protein: 3.14g
• Fat: 2.1g
• Carbohydrates: 20.3g
• Fiber: 0.7g
• Sugar: 16.6g
• Net Carbs: 19.6g

Health Considerations

While chocolate pudding isn’t particularly high in beneficial nutrients, its moderate glycemic impact makes it a better dessert choice for blood sugar management compared to high-GI sweets. The relatively low calorie content (113 calories per 100g) also makes it easier to incorporate into a balanced diet.

However, note that most of the carbohydrates come from sugar (16.6g out of 20.3g total carbs), and the fiber content is minimal at just 0.7g. This means that despite its moderate GI, chocolate pudding should still be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those monitoring carbohydrate intake.

Serving Suggestions

To further improve the glycemic impact of chocolate pudding, consider these serving ideas:

• Pair with a small handful of nuts to add protein and healthy fats
• Top with fresh berries to increase fiber content
• Make with unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk to reduce carbohydrates
• Choose sugar-free pudding mix varieties for lower sugar content

Bottom Line

Chocolate pudding made from dry mix can be part of a balanced diet thanks to its moderate glycemic index and relatively low calorie content. While it’s not a nutritional powerhouse, it represents a smarter dessert choice for those managing blood sugar levels compared to many other sweet options. As with all desserts, portion control remains important.