The Dark Chocolate Treatment For Heart Disease

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by Kristina ChewJune 1, 20128:37 pm

Amid today’s reports of unemployment in the US and in Europe, rising student debt from loans for college and other not exactly cheery topics, the British Medical Journal tells us that, for people at risk for heart disease, daily consumption of dark chocolate can actually reduce cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. Specifically, for those who have metabolic syndrome, which increases their risk for heart disease and diabetes, consuming dark chocolate (which is made up of 60% cocoa solids) can be beneficial.

A number of other studies have noted the potential health effects of chocolate and of dark chocolate in particular; one study suggests it helps to relieve emotional stress. The new study, by researchers from Melbourne, Australia, used a mathematical model to assess the long-term health effects and the cost effectiveness of daily dark chocolate consumption. 2,013 people, who were at high risk of heart disease and had high blood pressure, participated; none had a history of heart disease or diabetes or were undergoing treatment to lower their blood pressure.



The researchers also found that spending only about $42 a year on dark chocolate could have the prevention effects. Dark chocolate contains compounds called flavonoids (which have been shown to be antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic) and at higher levels than milk or white chocolate; it is not certain if these other types of chocolate might have the same benefits. “Daily dark chocolate consumption,” the researchers conclude, could be an “effective cardiovascular preventive strategy” specifically for those with metabolic syndrome.

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