A new observational study found that eating at least five servings of dark chocolate per week may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 21%. However, milk chocolate lovers are out of luck. Dark chocolate contains more cacao and flavanols, which act as antioxidants and reduce inflammation.
The study, published in The BMJ journal, analyzed data from three long-term studies involving over 111,000 participants. Researchers found that those who ate at least five servings a week of dark chocolate showed a significant 21% lower risk of type 2 diabetes compared to those who rarely or never ate chocolate.
However, milk chocolate did not show the same benefits. In fact, research suggests that consuming milk chocolate may lead to excessive weight gain over time, a key contributor to the development of type 2 diabetes.
The study’s authors note that while dark chocolate consumption was linked to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, more research is needed to confirm the findings. Additionally, some studies have found that dark chocolate can be contaminated with lead and cadmium, two neurotoxic metals that are linked to cancer and other health issues.
While dark chocolate may not be a panacea for type 2 diabetes prevention, making small choices like choosing dark over milk chocolate can make a positive difference to one’s health. As Dr. Nestoras Mathioudakis said, “For anyone who loves chocolate, this is a reminder that making small choices can make a positive difference.”
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/04/health/dark-chocolate-type-2-diabetes-wellness/index.html