Is Ovaltine Good For You? A Comprehensive Guide

If you’ve ever enjoyed a warm cup of Ovaltine before bed or mixed it into a cold glass of milk as a kid, you may be wondering if this beloved chocolate malt powder is actually good for you. 

In this article, we will explore the ingredients in Ovaltine, the potential health benefits it may offer, what experts say about its nutritional value, and ultimately answer the question: is Ovaltine good for you? Whether you’re a lifelong Ovaltine fan or just curious about its nutritional value, keep reading to learn more.

What is Ovaltine?

Ovaltine is a brand of chocolate malt powder that is typically mixed with milk to create a chocolate-flavored beverage. It was first introduced in Switzerland in the late 1800s as a nutritional supplement for children and has since become a popular drink around the world. 

Ovaltine is made from a blend of malted barley, cocoa powder, and sugar, and is often fortified with vitamins and minerals. It is available in both regular and reduced-sugar varieties and can be enjoyed hot or cold.¹

Nutrition Facts of Ovaltine

The nutritional facts of Ovaltine can vary depending on the specific product and serving size, but here are the general nutritional values for a 2 tablespoon (25 gram) serving of Ovaltine chocolate malt powder mixed with 8 ounces (240 mL) of whole milk:

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 3.5 grams
• Saturated Fat: 2 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 15 milligrams
• Sodium: 180 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 26 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
• Total Sugars: 23 grams
• Protein: 8 grams
• Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 0% of the DV
• Calcium: 30% of the DV
• Iron: 10% of the DV

Here’s a breakdown of some of the main ingredients in Ovaltine and their nutritional significance:

1. Malted Barley: Malted barley is a type of barley that has been allowed to sprout and then dried, which gives it a slightly sweet flavor. It is a good source of fiber, protein, and B vitamins.
2. Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder is made from ground cocoa beans and is a rich source of flavanols, which are plant compounds that have been associated with various health benefits. Cocoa powder is also a good source of fiber, iron, and magnesium.
3. Sugar: Sugar is added to Ovaltine to provide sweetness. It is a source of empty calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Milk: Milk is typically mixed with Ovaltine to create a chocolate-flavored beverage. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D, but can be high in saturated fat if whole milk is used.
5. Vitamins and Minerals: Some varieties of Ovaltine are fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron, to provide additional nutritional value.

Pros and Cons

Here are some potential pros and cons of consuming Ovaltine:

Pros:

1. Good source of vitamins and minerals: Many varieties of Ovaltine are fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron, which can help support overall health and wellness.
2. Provides a quick and easy source of protein: Ovaltine mixed with milk can provide a quick and easy source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
3. May promote relaxation and sleep: Some people find that drinking Ovaltine before bed can help promote relaxation and sleep, thanks to its magnesium and tryptophan content.

Cons:

1. Can be high in sugar: Some varieties of Ovaltine can be high in added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health issues if consumed in excess.
2. May contain additives and artificial ingredients: Some varieties of Ovaltine may contain additives, artificial flavors, and other ingredients that may not be desirable for some individuals.
3. Not suitable for those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance: Ovaltine is made with milk and is not suitable for individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance.

Overall, Ovaltine can be a tasty and convenient way to increase protein intake and provide some important vitamins and minerals, but it’s important to choose a variety that is low in added sugars and artificial ingredients and to consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid Ovaltine.

Health Benefits of Ovaltine

There is some evidence to suggest that Ovaltine may offer certain health benefits, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects.

Here are some of the potential health benefits of Ovaltine:

1. May improve cognitive function: Cocoa powder, one of the main ingredients in Ovaltine, contains flavanols, which are plant compounds that have been shown to improve cognitive function in some studies. A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that cocoa flavanols improved cognitive performance and increased blood flow to the brain in older adults.
2. May promote relaxation and sleep: Ovaltine contains magnesium and tryptophan, both of which are known to promote relaxation and sleep. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Sleep Disorders & Therapy found that magnesium supplementation improved sleep quality in elderly adults.
3. May support bone health: Ovaltine is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, both of which are important for bone health. A study published in the The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that calcium and vitamin D supplementation improved bone mineral density in older women.

It’s important to note that many of the health benefits attributed to Ovaltine are likely due to its individual components, such as cocoa powder, rather than Ovaltine itself.

Additionally, some varieties of Ovaltine can be high in added sugars, which can counteract any potential health benefits. 

As with any dietary supplement, it’s important to consume Ovaltine in moderation as part of a balanced diet and to speak with a healthcare provider before making any major changes to your diet.

What Do Medical Experts Say About Ovaltine?

There is limited research specifically on Ovaltine, but medical experts generally agree that moderation is key when it comes to consuming chocolate-flavored malt powders like Ovaltine.

Here are some quotes from medical experts and organizations about Ovaltine:

1. “It is important to keep in mind that cocoa and chocolate have calories, and consumption should be limited to moderate amounts, preferably less than 2 oz/day.” American Heart Association
2. “Ovaltine is a malted chocolate powder that is marketed as a healthy drink for children. However, it contains large amounts of sugar and is unlikely to offer any significant health benefits.” Healthline
3. “It’s important to remember that any chocolate drink powder is a treat, not a health food.” Harvard Health Publishing

Overall, medical experts caution that Ovaltine and other chocolate-flavored malt powders should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, as they can be high in sugar and calories.

Who Should Avoid Ovaltine?

Ovaltine is generally safe for most people to consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, there are a few groups of people who may want to use caution or avoid Ovaltine altogether. Here’s why:

1. Individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance: Ovaltine is made with milk and is not suitable for individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Milk allergies can cause serious reactions, while lactose intolerance can cause digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
2. Individuals with diabetes or blood sugar issues: Some varieties of Ovaltine can be high in added sugars, which can cause blood sugar levels to spike and may be problematic for individuals with diabetes or blood sugar issues.
3. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance: Some varieties of Ovaltine may contain gluten, which can be problematic for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

It’s always a good idea to read product labels and speak with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian if you have any concerns about consuming Ovaltine or other dietary supplements.

Alternatives to Ovaltine

Here are three alternatives to Ovaltine:

1. Milo: Milo is a chocolate malt powder that is similar to Ovaltine. It is made from malted barley, cocoa powder, and sugar and is available in many countries around the world.
2. Carnation Breakfast Essentials: Carnation Breakfast Essentials is a line of nutritional supplement powders that can be mixed with milk to create a chocolate-flavored beverage. They are available in several flavors and are fortified with vitamins and minerals.
3. Homemade hot chocolate: Making homemade hot chocolate using cocoa powder, milk, and a sweetener of your choice can be a healthier alternative to pre-made chocolate malt powders like Ovaltine. This allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any additives or excess sugar.

FAQ

Is Ovaltine suitable for vegans?

Ovaltine is not vegan, as it contains milk.

How do I prepare Ovaltine?

Ovaltine can be mixed with hot or cold milk to create a chocolate malt beverage. The amount of Ovaltine you use will depend on your personal taste preferences.

Is Ovaltine safe for children?

Ovaltine is generally safe for children to consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, some varieties may be high in added sugars, so it’s important to choose a low-sugar variety and limit consumption.

Does Ovaltine contain caffeine?

Ovaltine does not typically contain caffeine, although some varieties may contain small amounts of cocoa powder, which contains a small amount of caffeine.

Is Ovaltine a good source of protein?

Ovaltine does not contain a significant amount of protein on its own, but when mixed with milk it can provide a quick and easy source of protein.

Conclusion: Is Ovaltine good for you?

Ovaltine can provide some health benefits and can be a tasty addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals and may improve cognitive function, promote relaxation and sleep, and support bone health. 

However, some varieties of Ovaltine can be high in added sugars, which can counteract any potential health benefits. 

As with any dietary supplement, it’s important to read product labels and consume Ovaltine in moderation. While it may not be a “superfood,” Ovaltine can be a delicious treat and a convenient way to enjoy the health benefits of cocoa and other wholesome ingredients.

References

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