A new study led by Harvard researchers found that consuming dark chocolate may help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. The study, which analyzed data from over 111,000 nurses, found that those who ate five or more servings of dark chocolate a week had a 21% lower risk of developing the condition.
The researchers discovered this association after accounting for factors such as weight and lifestyle, and excluding individuals with extreme calorie intake. Dark chocolate was found to be beneficial due to its high flavanol content, which has been linked to several health benefits.
In contrast, milk chocolate was not associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes but rather an increased body mass index (BMI). The researchers suggest that this may be due to the higher added sugar content in milk chocolate.
The study’s findings are promising and warrant further investigation. With around 463 million people affected by diabetes worldwide, monitoring diet and blood sugar levels is crucial for those at risk. This new discovery highlights the potential benefits of dark chocolate as a healthier option for individuals looking to reduce their type 2 diabetes risk.
However, it’s essential to note that more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the mechanisms behind this association. Further randomized controlled trials are required to replicate the results and explore the effects of flavanol consumption on type 2 diabetes risk.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/one-type-of-chocolate-could-reduce-type-2-diabetes-risk-by-21