Come over to the Dark side this January!
As we step into a new year and many of us (ahem) carrying a bit of extra timber...
…we at least want to start with healthier ‘better’ habits, but not so healthy that all the joy is removed!
First up – chocolate is a super-indulgent treat, so we’d never advocate to eat ‘more’, but instead to choose better quality , choose as real as possible (real kitchen ingredients, the fewer the better) and probably (ahem) eat a little less!
Enter dark chocolate—a superfood in disguise and a totally delicious comfort during these cold, gloomy months.
From being packed with antioxidants to offering rich, satisfying flavours that encourage mindful eating, dark chocolate is more than just a treat. Let’s explore its benefits and why it deserves a spot in your New Year routine.
1. Dark Chocolate: A Superfood for Your Well-Being
Dark chocolate isn’t just about indulgence; it’s about nourishment too. High-quality dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. These compounds are linked to improved heart health, better blood flow, and even enhanced brain function.
Studies suggest that consuming a small amount of dark chocolate daily can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy addition to your diet. For those searching for healthy snacks, dark chocolate offers a balance of taste and wellness.
2. The Beauty of Intense Flavors: Less is More
Dark chocolate, especially varieties with 70% cocoa or more, delivers a depth of flavour that’s hard to match. These intense, rich notes allow you to savour smaller portions, making it ideal for those focusing on mindful eating or reducing sugar intake.
Chocolate is one of the most complex foods we eat – cocoa has over 400 distinct aromas which is more than any other natural product. Unlike overly sweet alternatives, the complexity of dark chocolate satisfies cravings while promoting moderation. It’s perfect for those looking for a snack that doesn’t compromise on pleasure.
3. A Mood Booster for Gloomy Days
January’s shorter days and chilly weather can often leave us feeling low. Thankfully, dark chocolate is a natural mood booster. It contains compounds that increase serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain, promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation.
Whether paired with your morning coffee or savoured in the evening with a cup of tea (or a glass of antioxidant-rich red wine!), dark chocolate transforms simple moments into comforting rituals.
4. Dark Chocolate and Weight Loss
It may sound counterintuitive, but if carefully managed, dark chocolate can support weight management. Its intense flavours and lower sugar content make it satisfying in smaller quantities, helping to curb cravings for less healthy snacks. Plus, the flavonoids in dark chocolate may help regulate insulin sensitivity, contributing to better metabolic health.
For those searching for ways to enjoy healthy desserts, dark chocolate makes for an excellent choice, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with fruits and nuts.
Interestingly when co-founder Giles went on the Zoe scheme recently, he carried out an unofficial (but semi-scientific) test by eating R&A chocolates vs the competition in exactly the same quantity at the same time under the same conditions on consecutive days – we were delighted with the results, you can read the full article here…
5. A Moment of Mindful Indulgence
Dark chocolate is the ultimate food for mindful eating. Its complex flavors—from fruity and floral to nutty and earthy—invite you to slow down, savor, and appreciate each bite.
Incorporating dark chocolate into your routine isn’t just about taste—it’s about creating small, intentional moments of joy. During the winter gloom, these little rituals can help ground you and bring a sense of calm to your day.
Discover the World of Russell and Atwell’s Dark Chocolate
If the thought of dark chocolate has your taste buds tingling, allow us to introduce our dark range in order of strength and sweetness. The key challenge with dark chocolate is to deliver a truly deeply indulgent flavour, but avoid the bitter notes so often associated – this is where our organic fresh cream and butter, together with wildflower honey come in – really helping to round-out the flavour profile for an absolutely delicious eat. There really is no reason to be afraid of the dark!
Salted Caramel with a 72% Outer shell and 40% interior.
This is actually a halfway house and a brilliant ‘gateway’ to our dark range. With a 72% dark shell that balances deliciously indulgent milk chocolate blended with organic fresh cream and salted caramel. We actually recommend ‘sucking’ if you have the patience as the creamy indulgent centre lasts and lasts…
Smooth Dark with a 72% outer shell and 65% interior
Crafted with Fino de Aroma cocoa from Colombia, this chocolate is a masterclass in balance. Its silky texture and subtly sweet richness, made with a generous dollop of organic fresh cream and butter and a drizzle of wildflower honeymake it the perfect choice for those seeking a deeply indulgent yet approachable dark chocolate experience.
Extra Dark with a 72% outer shell and 100% interior
For the purists and true cocoa enthusiasts, our Extra Dark is made with 100% Solomon Islands chocolate. This bold, intense variety delivers a deeper, almost savoury flavour profile, ideal for those who appreciate the complexity of high-cocoa-content chocolate. Lower in sugar and truly satiating.
Marc de Champagne with a 72% outer shell and 65% interior with a kick!
This is based on our Smooth Dark with a 72% outer shell and 65% interior, with generous dollop of organic fresh cream and butter and a drizzle of wildflower honey, laced with the magic of Marc de Champagne for a fancy fabulously indulgent eat. Oh and it’s recently won a ‘Great Taste Award’.
At Russell and Atwell, we believe chocolate should be a full-on experience—fresh, natural, and full of flavor. That’s why our chocolates are made with living ingredients like organic fresh cream and wildflower honey and that’s why our chocolate live in your fridge!
Start your year with a resolution you’ll want to keep: discovering the pleasure of high-quality dark chocolate. Visit our dark range to explore our range and make 2025 your most delicious year yet.
References:
We’ve used multiple sources for this article, but particularly recommend the wonderful and dearly missed Dr Michael Mosley:
‘Just One Thing’ – Dr Michael Mosley says chocolate is good for you and his podcast on dark chocolate from September 2021.
And Zoe from March 2024
‘Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate and how much you should eat’