Chocolate is one of those great foods that we all really want to avoid eating to stay healthy. Like red wine and ice cream, chocolate is one thing that we all know is probably bad for us, but we would love to be proven wrong. How great would it be if you could make yourself healthier by eating this sweet, delicious treat?
According to recent news stories hitting the headlines, there’s reason to celebrate. Several publications are celebrating the news that chocolate, and dark chocolate in particular, can reduce the risk of diabetes. Good news for those of us who like to occasionally enjoy one of the most delicious foods ever invented by humanity.
Unfortunately, the data is pretty unreliable. Dark chocolate might be good for you, but realistically it’s not very certain. I’d rather stick to eating the rare chocolate treat than fill my shopping trolley with the sweet stuff regularly.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity
The polyphenols in dark chocolate may improve the way insulin works in the body, which can help control blood sugar.
Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
A Harvard study found that eating five or more servings of dark chocolate per week was associated with a 21% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Reduced Insulin Resistance
The flavonoids in cocoa may help improve endothelial function, which can reduce insulin resistance.
Lower Blood Pressure
One study found that people with type 2 diabetes who ate dark chocolate had lower blood pressure after eight weeks than those who ate white chocolate.
If you have diabetes and want to eat chocolate, you can try these tips:
- Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa.
- Limit to portion sizes of 1-2 ounces.
- Eat it with a meal or a protein-rich snack.
- Choose chocolate sweetened with a non-nutritive sweetener such as stevia, monk fruit, erythritol, or inulin. Limit high-sugar chocolates such as caramel.
Dark chocolate, especially dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa, may help prevent type 2 diabetes.
Dark chocolate may also help lower blood pressure and improve mood.
Eating chocolate can have different effects on blood sugar levels, such as:
Dark chocolate contains less sugar and fiber, which slows the absorption of sugar. The polyphenols in dark chocolate improve insulin sensitivity, which helps control blood sugar. Eating dark chocolate may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Eating sugar-free dark chocolate lowers blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Eating chocolate with nuts or low glycemic index foods leads to a slower rise in blood sugar levels.
Physical activity after eating chocolate helps use glucose and can prevent a rise in blood sugar levels.
Eating dark chocolate can be beneficial to avoid diabetes. Elements called flavonoids present in dark chocolate improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance.
Eating dark chocolate also has a positive effect on blood sugar. According to a study, people who eat dark chocolate at least five times a week have a 21% lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
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