Is Nesquik Chocolate Powder Bad For You?

Nesquik Chocolate Powder mix has been in existence in the United States since 1948.  It quickly spread around the world, having a presence in most industrialized nations by 1960.  The advantages of this product are, having chocolate milk available, in the amount you desire, and only needing regular milk in your refrigerator.  It eliminates having to purchase chocolate milk and the possibility of it expiring.

Nesquik is a viable source of minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, manganese, and zinc.  This household name powder is also a good source of several vitamins, which include Biotin (Vitamin H), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Thiamin (Vitamin B1), Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin D.  Some trainers recommend Nesquik and other chocolate milk products as an inexpensive post-workout drink.  In order to get any benefits from this, it must be consumed within 15 minutes of completing the workout.  However, using chocolate milk products as a post-workout drink is a controversial practice.

The number one concern in the powder is the very large sugar content.  It has 30 grams per cup and many people consume more than one serving.  In addition to the obvious correlation between sugar and diabetes and weight gain, this frequent found ingredient is a prime culprit for inflammation.

Inflammation in the body is responsible for numerous body ailments, including psychological disorders, fertility disorders, fatigue, and general achiness—just to name a few!  It is near impossible to avoid sugar completely.  However, Nesquik should be consumed as a special treat, not as a daily morning breakfast drink.

There is also an added ingredient called Carrageenan.  This organic ingredient is essentially dried and processed red seaweed.  It is used as an emulsifier (thickener) and prevents separation in the liquid.  You can find it hiding in dairy products, soups, baby formula, and delicious treats.  It is often added to products that are “reduced fat”, in order to improve taste.  Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits the use of Carrageenan in products, though it is required to be a listed ingredient on the packaging of products containing the ingredient.  Research has found it to be a cause of inflammation and stomach discomfort.

Another troublesome thing to consider is that it requires that milk be added.  The level of fat and sugar of the drink once prepared will vary depending on which type of milk is used.  Due to the negative health factors associated with cow’s milk, it should be consumed in small amounts.  Do not be so quick to pull out almond or soymilk, as an alternative.  Oddly, these two kinds of milk contain additional Carrageenan and should be avoided in large amounts, as well.

Inflammation is a significant problem among many foods.  In addition to the other ingredients that are associated with causing it, sugar remains one the main culprit.  Unfortunately, it is everywhere.  If you are a person that already suffers from inflammation, this drink should be avoided.  If you typically do not suffer from inflammation or consume large amounts of sugar, Nesquik would be a reasonable occasional treat.