A new study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has found that eating dark chocolate daily may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study, which involved over 111,000 participants, found that those who consumed five or more weekly servings of dark chocolate had a 10% lower rate of type 2 diabetes compared to non-consumers.
The key to this benefit is the flavonoid-rich content in dark chocolate, particularly cocoa. Dark chocolate contains high levels of flavanols which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve cardiovascular health.
However, experts note that moderation is key when consuming dark chocolate, as it is calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain if overconsumed. The study’s findings also suggest that the benefits of dark chocolate may be specific to certain populations, such as older adults, and may not generalize to younger or more diverse groups.
Registered dietitians agree that while dark chocolate has potential health benefits, it should not be viewed as a “silver bullet” for long-term health. Instead, it is part of a balanced diet that emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, plenty of water, and plant-based options.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/food-drink/amount-dark-chocolate-daily-could-reduce-diabetes-risk-study-finds