Two delicious ingredients that also have their benefits: dark chocolate and coffee beans, brought together in the Zenit chocolate and coffee energy square.
In short
- 70% dark chocolate is rich in polyphenols (flavanols), antioxidants found in cocoa.
- The higher the percentage of cocoa, the more polyphenols and the less sugar.
- The caffeine in coffee beans improves endurance performance and reduces the perception of effort.
- The Zenit chocolate and coffee square contains 10 coffee beans, the equivalent of a small espresso.
- Maximum recommended by Health Canada: 400 mg of caffeine per day for a healthy adult.
70% dark chocolate
Cocoa is rich in polyphenols, particularly flavanols, which have antioxidant activity. These compounds are being studied for their effects on cardiovascular health. The benefits are concentrated in cocoa, so dark chocolate, which is higher in cocoa and lower in sugar, contains the most. Like any chocolate, enjoy it in moderation!
Coffee beans
The caffeine in coffee beans is a natural stimulant that improves performance during endurance exercise. It also helps reduce the perception of effort and fatigue when consumed before or during exercise. Coffee also contains antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acid.
The Zenit chocolate and coffee energy square contains 10 high-caffeine coffee beans, the equivalent of a small espresso: a perfect boost before or during exercise. To learn more about dosage and timing, read the impact of caffeine on sports performance.
Frequently asked questions
How much caffeine is in the Zenit chocolate and coffee square?
It contains 10 coffee beans, the equivalent of a small espresso.
Is dark chocolate good for your health?
Dark chocolate rich in cocoa contains antioxidant polyphenols. It is still a sugary, high-fat food to be enjoyed in moderation.
When should you eat a coffee square before sports?
About 30 to 60 minutes before exercise, or during prolonged exercise. Try it during training to find out how well you tolerate it.
Danielle Dubois, Dt.P., nutritionist
Member of the Ordre des diététistes-nutritionnistes du Québec
Founder of Zenit Nutrition
References
- Guest NS, VanDusseldorp TA, Nelson MT, et al. International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and exercise performance. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021;18(1):1. PMC7777221
- Burke LM. Caffeine and sports performance. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2008;33(6):1319-1334. PMID: 19088794
- Health Canada. Caffeine in foods (maximum intake of 400 mg per day for healthy adults). canada.ca
- The Visual Encyclopedia of Food, new edition. Québec Amérique, 2017.