Dark chocolate may help lower type 2 diabetes risk

In 2022, 830 million people worldwide had diabetes. The vast majority of people with diabetes have type 2, so researchers are particularly interested in its prevention.

An October 2024 study published in The British Medical Journal (https://www.bmj.com/content/387/bmj-2023-078386) analyzed the relationship between eating chocolate and the risk for type 2 diabetes. This research was able to differentiate between dark and milk chocolate consumption.

Researchers found that participants who ate 5 or more servings of dark chocolate a week had a 21% decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

The researchers found some interesting associations between chocolate consumption and other dietary choices. For example, milk chocolate was associated with other less healthy food choices like added sugar and processed meat.

Dark chocolate linked to 21% lower risk of type 2 diabetes– In looking at overall chocolate consumption, researchers found that participants who consumed 5 or more servings of any chocolate in a week had a roughly 10% reduction in type 2 diabetes risk when compared to people who never or rarely ate chocolate. 

Subgroup analyses suggested that participants with high-quality diets were most likely to benefit from type 2 diabetes risk reduction related to dark chocolate.

However, when looking at chocolate subtypes, the benefits appeared to rest with dark chocolate over milk chocolate.

Researchers found no significant association between milk chocolate intake and type 2 diabetes risk. Additionally, increasing milk chocolate intake was associated with weight gain.

Note: The study does have limitations. First, some data, like those on chocolate consumption, were collected through self-reports, which do not always accurately portray real-life consumption.

While dark chocolate may offer some protective benefits against type 2 diabetes, it should not be viewed as a standalone solution. 

Moderate dark chocolate consumption as part of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet may be suggested for patients interested in improving their overall health. However, it’s crucial to maintain moderation, as chocolate is calorie-dense and excessive consumption could negate its potential benefits.

Go ahead and enjoy a few delicious morsels of dark chocolate this holiday season but be aware of the rest of your diet… keep it healthy!

Source: Excerpted from the article and research provided at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dark-chocolate-may-help-lower-type-2-diabetes-risk?

Previous Story

Toys to avoid with your little ones

Next Story

Stressed and craving comfort food? Cocoa could help

Latest from Health