Enjoy Chocolate in Moderation

Many  individuals with IBD ask if they can still eat chocolate, and the answer is yes! Chocolate is a plant food made from the bean of a South American tree, and like other plant foods it contains phyochemicals such as antioxidants. Unfortunately, the more processed it is, the less phytochemicals it contains. Darker chocolate contains the most flavonoids, so be sure to look for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content. 

The key is to enjoy small amounts in moderation, as even dark chocolate is high in fat. Commercial chocolate is processed and includes ingredients such as cocoa butter (fat), cocoa powder, sugar and milk. (While chocolate is not really chocolate at all; it is just cocoa fat, sugar and flavorings.) Remember, too, that chocolate contains some caffeine; for sensitive individuals, this may be enough to stimulate cramping or more frequent bowel movement. 

If you are following a low- residue diet, choose chocolate without dried or candied fruits, coconut or nuts. Chocolate that contains caramel, wafers, biscuits, smooth peanut butter or marshmallow is fine.