While most people choose chocolate based on taste and texture, opting for dark chocolate might offer an unexpected health benefit: a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
A recent study conducted by researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health analyzed the eating habits and health records of 111,654 nurses over several decades, starting in the 1970s. Participants provided details about their chocolate consumption through periodic surveys.
Key Findings
The study revealed that consuming dark chocolate five or more times a week was associated with a 21% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes over an average 25-year follow-up period. This association remained even after accounting for factors such as calorie intake, diet, and lifestyle habits.
Interestingly, dark chocolate seemed to contribute to maintaining a healthier weight, whereas milk chocolate consumption was linked to weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
"Increased consumption of dark chocolate was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes," the researchers wrote in their paper. "On the other hand, milk chocolate was linked to long-term weight gain."
The Role of Flavanols
Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols, natural compounds also found in fruits and vegetables that are believed to offer various health benefits, including improved heart and metabolic health. Previous studies have suggested that flavanols may play a role in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, potentially explaining the observed connection.
Milk and white chocolate, which contain higher levels of added sugar, lack the same health benefits and may contribute to metabolic health issues, the researchers noted.
A Word of Caution
While the study presents compelling evidence of a link between dark chocolate and a reduced diabetes risk, it does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Many other factors may contribute to the observed benefits, and further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Implications
As the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise—affecting approximately 463 million people globally in 2019 and projected to reach 700 million within 20 years—discoveries like this offer potential pathways for prevention. Simple dietary changes, such as choosing dark chocolate over other types, could help reduce individual risk.
Researchers emphasize that further randomized controlled trials are essential to replicate these findings and better understand how dark chocolate might contribute to metabolic health. For now, the results offer a delicious possibility for improving health: enjoying a moderate amount of dark chocolate as part of a balanced diet.
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