Biting into a square of dark chocolate might just be your next revolutionary health move. No more dilemma between pleasure and guilt: a recent American study reveals that this refined delicacy has more to offer than its intense flavor. Consumed regularly, it could significantly reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Far from being limited to a simple gourmet luxury, dark chocolate asserts itself as a true well-being ally. Proof that sometimes, giving in to temptation can be the best choice for your health.
A major study for solid conclusions
Carried out over a period of 25 years, the study of BMJ is based on data from three large cohorts comprising nearly 200,000 participants. The latter, all from medical and paramedical circles, were regularly questioned about their eating habits and their state of health. Among them, 18,862 developed type 2 diabetes.
By analyzing the frequency and type of chocolate consumed, the researchers discovered a striking difference: lovers of dark chocolate, consumed five times a week at a rate of one ounce per day, had a 21% reduced risk of developing diabetes. . An observation which, according to scientists, could be explained by the richness of dark chocolate in polyphenols, powerful antioxidants which play a key role in the regulation of insulin.
An essential distinction: black vs milk
One of the strengths of this study lies in its methodology. Unlike many previous works, the researchers took care to distinguish the different types of chocolate: dark, milk and white. This precision helps to understand why dark chocolate stands out from its sweet cousins.
Milk chocolate, although often seen as a sweeter alternative, is actually much less beneficial. In question? Its high sugar and added fat content, which contributes not only to an increased risk of diabetes, but also to long-term weight gain. Conversely, dark chocolate, with its high cocoa content (at least 70%), offers clear benefits thanks to its polyphenols, which counterbalance its caloric intake.
-Polyphenols, blood sugar and metabolic health
Polyphenols, in fact, are the key to this health equation. These bioactive compounds, naturally found in cocoa, act as antioxidants, reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. Result: better management of blood sugar levels and increased prevention of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
But be careful: it’s all a question of dose. Excessive consumption of chocolate, even dark chocolate, can cancel out these benefits by providing unnecessary calories. Researchers recommend limiting yourself to a reasonable daily portion, around 28 grams, to maximize the positive effects.
The art of enjoying without compromising your health
To take full advantage of the benefits of dark chocolate, a few simple principles are enough. It all starts with the choice of bar: choose those with at least 70% cocoa. The higher the content, the greater the richness in polyphenols.
