Decoding the Nutritional Value of Raw Cacao Nibs: How Many Calories Are in Them?

Raw cacao nibs are a popular superfood that has recently gained a lot of attention for its health benefits. These small, crunchy pieces of raw cacao beans are packed with nutrients, including antioxidants, fiber, and minerals. However, they are also relatively high in calories compared to some other plant-based foods. In this article, we’ll decode the nutritional value of raw cacao nibs and answer the question, “How many calories are in there?

The Nutritional Value of Raw Cacao Nibs

NutrientAmount per 1 oz (28 g)
Calories130-150
Protein4 g
Fat12 g
Carbohydrates11 g
Fiber9 g
Iron6% of the Daily Value
Magnesium16% of the Daily Value
Zinc6% of the Daily Value

This chart shows that raw cacao nibs are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, while also providing important minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. They are also relatively low in carbohydrates compared to some other plant-based foods, making them a great choice for people following a low-carb or keto diet.

Raw cacao nibs are a rich source of many important nutrients, including:

  1. Antioxidants: Raw cacao nibs are one of the most antioxidant-rich foods on the planet. They contain flavonoids, which are plant compounds that help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
  2. Dietary Fiber: Raw cacao nibs are high in fiber, which can help support digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels.
  3. Minerals: Raw cacao nibs are a good source of several important minerals, including magnesium, iron, and zinc. These minerals are essential for many bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, immune system health, and energy production.
  4. Healthy fats: Raw cacao nibs are a good source of healthy fats, including oleic acid and stearic acid. These fats may help support heart health and reduce inflammation in the body.

How many calories are in raw cacao nibs?

While raw cacao nibs are packed with nutrients, they are also relatively high in calories compared to some other plant-based foods. As mentioned above, one ounce (28 grams) of raw cacao nibs contains approximately 130-150 calories. This serving size is roughly equivalent to a small handful of nibs.

It’s worth noting that while raw cacao nibs are high in calories, they can still be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation. They are a great alternative to traditional chocolate, which is often high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Raw cacao nibs can be used in a variety of ways, such as sprinkled on yogurt or oatmeal, added to smoothies, or used in baking recipes.

Health benefits of raw cacao nibs

  1. Rich in Antioxidants: Raw cacao nibs are one of the most antioxidant-rich foods on the planet. They contain flavonoids, which are plant compounds that help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Antioxidants may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
  2. High in fiber: Raw cacao nibs are high in fiber, which can help support digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels. Fiber may also help reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
  3. Good source of minerals: Raw cacao nibs are a good source of several important minerals, including magnesium, iron, and zinc. These minerals are essential for many bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, immune system health, and energy production.
  4. Mood elevating: Raw cacao nibs contain theobromine, a compound that can help improve mood and reduce anxiety. Theobromine has a similar effect to caffeine, but is less potent, making it a good choice for people who are sensitive to caffeine.
  5. Lowers blood pressure: Raw cacao nibs contain compounds called flavanols, which have been shown to help lower blood pressure. Flavanols may help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the body, which can have a positive impact on heart health.

Other interesting facts

  • Raw cacao nibs are a great source of plant protein, containing about 4 grams of protein per ounce (28 grams).
  • They are also relatively low in carbohydrates, making them a great choice for people following a low-carb or keto diet.
  • Raw cacao nibs can be used in a variety of ways, including adding them to smoothies, using them in baking recipes, or sprinkling them on oatmeal or yogurt.
  • They have a bitter, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with other flavors such as vanilla and cinnamon.

Bottom Line

Raw cacao nibs are a nutrient-dense food, packed with antioxidants, fiber, and minerals. While they are relatively high in calories compared to some other plant-based foods, they can still be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation. By incorporating raw cacao nibs into your diet, you can enjoy the many health benefits of this superfood while satisfying your sweet tooth in a healthy way.

FAQs

How many calories are in raw cacao nibs?

One ounce (28 grams) of raw cacao nibs contains approximately 130-150 calories.

Are cacao nibs good for weight loss?

Some benefits of cacao nibs are: Helps to lose weight and manage weight : Pure unrefined cacao nibs has lots of fiber and makes you feel fuller plus it helps with your chocolate cravings minus the calories.

How many calories are in a tablespoon of cacao nibs?

Scharffen Berger

Nutrition Facts
For a Serving Size of 1 tablespoon (11.34g)
How many calories are in Roasted Cacao Nibs? Amount of calories in Roasted Cacao Nibs: Calories 70Calories from Fat 45 (64.3%)
% Daily Value *
How much fat is in Roasted Cacao Nibs? Amount of fat in Roasted Cacao Nibs: Total Fat 5g

How many calories are in a teaspoon of cacao nibs?

Navitas Naturals

Nutrition Facts
For a Serving Size of 1 tsp (3g)
How many calories are in Cacao Nibs? Amount of calories in Cacao Nibs: Calories 20Calories from Fat 13.5 (67.5%)
% Daily Value *
How much fat is in Cacao Nibs? Amount of fat in Cacao Nibs: Total Fat 1.5g

What is a serving size of cacao nibs?

3 tablespoons

One serving—3 tablespoons —of cacao nibs contains the following: 150 calories. 8 grams of fat. 16 grams of carbohydrates.

Are cacao nibs high in calories?

Moderately Low in Calories, High in Dietary Fiber

Unlike most processed chocolate, cacao nibs are likely to fill you up on just a moderate amount of calories. An ounce of cacao nibs has just 130 calories, or about 7 percent of your calorie allowance if you eat a 2,000-calorie diet.

Is raw cacao fattening?

It is also associated with strong nails, shiny hair and overall liver and pancreatic health. It can help weight control: Raw cacao is not only a healthier alternative to processed chocolate but drinking a cup of hot cacao before meals may reduce your appetite by helping you better attune to your body’s hunger signals.

Which is better raw or roasted cacao nibs?

Some studies suggest that raw cacao beans are the best option to maximize your health benefits. This is because raw cacao beans still maintain the enzymes and all of the chemical compounds within the cacao nibs. After all, they’re processed without exposure to outside heat.

How much cacao nibs should I eat per day?

However, just 28 grams of nibs added to your morning breakfast provides you with nearly a third of your daily recommended intake. Copper and iron are needed to produce red blood cells, which supply the body with oxygen.
Average Per 28g (1 serving)

Average Per 28g (1 serving)
Fibre9.0 g
Sugar0.5 g