Eating Dark Chocolate Linked with Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

By: Dr. Oberto Torres Rafael

According to a Harvard study, eating dark chocolate can lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

There’s plenty of existing evidence on the relationship between the disease and chocolate. However, the difference between milk and dark chocolate isn’t examined often.

The study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health noted that participants who consumed at least 5 ounces of chocolate every week reduced their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 10 percent, in comparison to individuals who consumed little to no chocolate on a weekly basis. When looking at dark chocolate specifically, this number rose to 21 percent. Every serving of dark chocolate consumed in a week has a 3 percent reduction rate. This protective effect is likely due to the high antioxidant content in dark chocolate, which may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress. While chocolate has its benefits, it’s important to keep in mind that eating too much milk chocolate can lead to weight gain, which can increase your risk of developing diabetes.

Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings. The next time you reach for a piece of chocolate, remind yourself that there’s a difference between the kinds you choose. The right choice can impact your long-term health.

Dr. Oberto Torres Rafael is an endocrinologist for Jackson Medical Group. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Torres Rafael, call 305-585-4564 or visit jacksonmedicalgroup.org.