LINDT LES GRANDES DARK HAZELNUT

LINDT LES GRANDES DARK HAZELNUT

PRIMARY CLINICAL & DIAGNOSTIC USES

1. High-Density Calorie Supplement for Patients with Unintentional Weight Loss or Cachexia

• Primary Use: Provides an energy-dense dark chocolate bar (approximately 573 kcal per 100 g) containing 34% whole roasted hazelnuts and caramelised hazelnut pieces, designed to supplement oral intake in patients with cancer cachexia, advanced COPD, heart failure, or dementia-related anorexia who require calorie-dense, low-volume nutrition.

• How it helps: For the dietitian, geriatrician, and palliative care physician, each 30 g serving (2 squares) provides approximately 170 kcal, 12 g fat (including heart‑healthy monounsaturated fats from hazelnuts), 11 g sugar, 2 g protein, and 2 g fibre. The combination of smooth dark chocolate (43% cocoa solids) with whole roasted hazelnuts offers a satisfying, nutrient-dense treat. For the patient, a few squares help maintain weight without feeling overly full, turning a nutritional need into an enjoyable moment.

2. Plant Protein and Dietary Fibre for Malnourished or Frail Elderly Patients

• Primary Use: The hazelnut component contributes plant-based protein (approximately 2.4 g per serving) and dietary fibre (approximately 2 g per serving), complementing the energy density of dark chocolate, making this product suitable for frail elderly patients with sarcopenia, poor appetite, or those requiring increased protein and fibre intake without large food volumes.

• How it helps: For the geriatrician and dietitian, hazelnuts provide approximately 8 g of protein per 100 g, plus fibre, vitamin E (antioxidant), and magnesium. A 30 g serving provides a meaningful contribution to daily protein and fibre goals, supporting muscle maintenance and digestive regularity. For the patient, a small, enjoyable treat can support strength and comfort.

3. Antioxidant Support for Cardiovascular Health via Cocoa Flavanols and Vitamin E

• Primary Use: The combination of dark chocolate flavanols (from 43% cocoa solids) and vitamin E from hazelnuts provides dual antioxidant support to reduce oxidative stress, support endothelial function, and modestly lower blood pressure in patients with early cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or metabolic syndrome.

• How it helps: For the cardiologist and dietitian, cocoa flavanols improve nitric oxide bioavailability and have been associated with reductions in blood pressure. The vitamin E in hazelnuts (approximately 15 mg per 100 g) acts as a fat-soluble antioxidant, protecting cell membranes. A 30 g serving provides meaningful flavanols and a contribution to daily vitamin E requirements. For the patient, this chocolate offers a heart‑friendly way to enjoy a sweet treat.

4. Mood Enhancement and Sensory Stimulation in Palliative Care, Dementia, and Depression

• Primary Use: Used as a small, comforting treat to elevate mood, provide multi-textural sensory stimulation (smooth chocolate, crunchy whole hazelnuts, crisp caramelised pieces), and evoke positive memories in patients receiving palliative care, those with mild to moderate depression, or individuals with dementia.

• How it helps: For the palliative care physician, hospice nurse, and occupational therapist, the combination of three distinct textures engages multiple senses, improves alertness, and can trigger positive autobiographical memories. Dark chocolate triggers endorphin and serotonin release; the act of chewing hazelnuts provides proprioceptive and oral motor stimulation. For the patient, a small piece can bring a moment of joy and connection during a difficult illness trajectory.

SECONDARY USES

1. Small, portion‑controlled treat for patients with diabetes (in moderation): A 30 g serving (2 squares) contains 11 g sugar. The fibre and fat from hazelnuts help slow gastric emptying and attenuate the glycaemic response compared to milk chocolate. Can be incorporated into a diabetic meal plan as an occasional treat.

2. Source of magnesium for patients with muscle cramps or mild deficiency: Hazelnuts are rich in magnesium (approximately 160 mg per 100 g). A 30 g serving provides a small contribution to daily requirements, potentially helping reduce nocturnal leg cramps.

3. Non‑medical comfort for needle phobia or distressing procedures: Offering a square of LES GRANDES Dark Hazelnut as a reward or distraction during venepuncture, cannulation, or vaccinations can reduce anxiety, with the crunchy hazelnut pieces providing additional sensory focus.

4. Long shelf‑life, portable snack for homebound or low‑resource patients: Individually packaged 150 g bars have a shelf life of approximately 364 days, making them a practical non‑perishable energy reserve for patients with limited access to fresh snacks.

5. Reward to improve adherence to oral nutritional supplements (ONS): For patients who refuse or struggle to consume prescribed oral nutritional supplements, a small piece offered as positive reinforcement can improve long‑term adherence.

6. Alternative for patients who find very high‑cocoa dark chocolate too bitter: With 43% cocoa solids, this bar is smoother and less bitter than 70‑85% dark chocolate, while still providing flavanol benefits. Suitable for patients who dislike intense bitterness.