Key points from article :
A recent study has shown that indulging in dark chocolate may offer a sweet benefit: a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that individuals who consumed at least five servings of dark chocolate per week were 21% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to those who rarely or never ate chocolate.
The study analyzed data from over 192,000 participants over a 30-year period. It revealed that while both dark and milk chocolate consumption were associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes compared to no chocolate consumption, dark chocolate proved to be more beneficial.
The researchers attribute this difference to the presence of polyphenols in dark chocolate. These powerful antioxidants have been linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health.
While dark chocolate can be a delicious and healthy treat, it's important to consume it in moderation and choose high-quality options with a high cocoa content. “We were surprised by the clear split between dark and milk chocolate’s impact on diabetes risk and long-term weight management,” said corresponding author Qi Sun. Excessive consumption of any type of chocolate, including dark chocolate, can still contribute to weight gain and other health problems.
By making small dietary changes, such as opting for dark chocolate over milk chocolate, individuals can take steps to improve their overall health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes.
Research by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, published in The BMJ.
