Gauri Khan starts her day with chocolate; is it advisable?

While some benefits are emerging, "chocolate shouldn't replace a balanced breakfast", said Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and diabetes educator

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | Updated: June 13, 2024 02:35 PM IST

3 min read

This is Gauri Khan's morning indulgence (Source: Gauri Khan/Instagram)

Different people begin their mornings differently. So does Gauri Khan, who prefers to indulge in chocolate upon waking up.

In a 59-second chat with Curly Tales, the ace interior designer said, “I have chocolate,” when quizzed about the first thing she does after waking up.

But, should you have chocolate on an empty stomach? That’s exactly what we set out to understand.

Turns out, diving into chocolate first thing in the morning has some interesting science behind it, said Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and diabetes educator.

Potential benefits and things to consider before making it a daily habit

A 2021 study suggests a connection between having chocolate in the morning and fat burning. “This small study involving postmenopausal women found that consuming 100g of milk chocolate within an hour of waking up led to decreased blood sugar levels and increased fat burning compared to those who didn’t have chocolate,” said Malhotra.

Study limitations: This was a small study, and more research is needed to confirm these findings in a broader population.
Portion size: The study used a specific amount (100g — roughly a standard chocolate bar).
Type of chocolate: Milk chocolate was used, not dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content (which has more potential health benefits), shared Malhotra.

What about overall nutrition?

According to Malhotra, while some benefits are emerging, “chocolate shouldn’t replace a balanced breakfast”.

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A well-rounded morning meal should include:
Complex carbohydrates: Whole grains like oatmeal or whole-wheat toast provide sustained energy.
Protein: Eggs, Greek yogurt, or nuts help you feel fuller for longer.
Fibre: Fruits and vegetables add essential vitamins and keep you feeling satisfied.